The evolution of organized crime is a product of combining influences that work together over time, causing a social unit to respond to its environment and opportunities. In a broad sense, this process has been characteristic of ethnic criminal groups throughout American history. Current gangs are susceptible to the same economic, social, and cultural processes as ethnic gangs of the past. Their evolution may not take the exact path of La Cosa Nostra, but some form of organized crime is likely to occur or may already exist. Today's street gangs are more violent than any gangs of the past; their violence is motivated by more obscure reasons, such as status, reputation, and pride. Their membership includes a larger portion of the population, and the street gang subculture enjoys a greater acceptance from youth. Add leadership and an organized criminal element, and American society faces a serious national crime problem on an unprecedented scale. Law enforcement must be prepared to respond to the new dynamics of gang crime with different prevention, intervention, and suppression tactics. Efforts to counter gangs require partnerships among local, State, and Federal criminal justice agencies, as well as cooperation with social services, educational, private business, and other groups that have a stake in the issue. 4 notes