The analysis indicated that drug sales, facilitated by gang norms and values, have become a pervasive aspect of California gangs. Cultural gangs differ from instrumental gangs in that they exist prior to and independently of the illegal activities in which they are involved. However, some cultural gangs may be evolving toward the instrumental model. A causal link does not appear to exist between gangs and drug distribution, but most, if not all, cultural gang members have their first contact with drugs, either as sellers or users, as members of the gang or the set. Once a youth is accepted into a cultural gang, participation in the drug business can facilitate upward mobility. The shift in cultural gangs toward the instrumental model poses new challenges for law enforcement and local communities.