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Linkages Between Street Gangs and Organized Crime: The Canadian Experience

NCJ Number
212481
Journal
Journal of Gang Research Volume: 13 Issue: 1 Dated: Fall 2005 Pages: 17-32
Author(s)
Katharine Kelly; Tullio Caputo
Date Published
2005
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This study examined the nature of street gangs in Canada and their links to organized crime groups.
Abstract
The growing presence of street gangs in Canada is raising the concern of law enforcement officials across the country, specifically the relationship between street gangs and organized crime groups. This article presents results from an exploratory study which examined the nature and extent of street gang activity in Canada and any linkages that exist between these groups and other criminal groups. Nine police officers identified by key informants as being highly knowledgeable in this area participated in the study. The study revealed that street gangs can be linked to organized crime groups in three ways: (1) they may be linked to prison-based gangs; (2) they may be connected to gangs in other locations through gang migration; and (3) they may be linked to organized crime groups. However, it was noted that street gangs can also be independent criminal enterprises in their own right. These street gangs employ sophisticated methods and engage in complex criminal activities. References

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