NCJ Number
163982
Date Published
1992
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video consists of interviews with Los Angeles gang members regarding their attitudes toward police, the symbolism of gang colors and clothes, gang loyalty, and gang activities.
Abstract
Gang members interviewed are from Hispanic and black gangs, including the "Bloods" and the "Crips." When asked about their views of police behavior toward gang members, most of those interviewed respect that police have their job to do, but they resent being treated with disrespect by the police. One Hispanic gang member suggests that police meet with gang members to discuss life in their neighborhoods and how to reduce violence. One member of the "Bloods" notes that gang members sometimes need to be handled firmly by police when they act in a criminal way. When asked about gang colors, gang members note that the colors derive generally from gang names, neighborhood names, or an image the gang wishes to project. For some gang members, the wearing of gang colors gives them an identity and symbolizes loyalty to the gang. A female "Crip" gang member comments on her gang's efforts to expand its drug dealing into other cities and towns where drug competition is less than in Los Angeles. Operating in less competitive areas yields a greater profit. Young gang members are recruited in the new territories by giving them money and a gun. This same gang member advises that she would kill and die for her gang without reservation. She also discusses the wide range of weaponry in the gang arsenal.