NCJ Number
95755
Date Published
1984
Length
11 pages
Annotation
The U.S. Attorney General reviews the Federal Government's success against traditional organized crime in cities and international drug trafficking syndicates, as well as potential problems posed by new crime cartels in the Far East.
Abstract
During the past 4 years, the leaders of the crime families in several major cities have been immobilized by heavy prison sentences, forcing the syndicates to rely on secondary leadership. This is a turning point in the history of the fight against organized crime. At the same time, the Federal Government has entered a new, international phase to counter drug trafficking. Initiatives in this area include crop control agreements with nations that grow marijuana and heroin; cooperative interdiction in Brazil, Peru, and Colombia; and negotiations with other countries to facilitate extradition, prisoner exchange, and mutual legal assistance. The growing cooperation among nations is evident in the joint efforts of law enforcement authorities of various countries in investigating and breaking up international drug trafficking rings. The recent passage of the Federal crime bill will strengthen the criminal justice system response to organized crime in the areas of bail, sentencing, and forfeiture. Reforms are needed in the Freedom of Information Act to protect informants. Finally, we must learn about emerging crime groups, notably the Chinese Triad Societies in Hong Kong and the Japanese Yakuza.