The new unit was implemented and tested by the California Department of Justice, Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement, from December 1, 1974, through June 30, 1975, and involved a coordinated effort by local, State, and Federal agencies. A review of the literature establishes the current thinking on organized crime control. Information is presented pertaining to the need for special organized crime control units at the State and local levels of government. Consideration is given to how such a unit should be formed and operated, whether the unit should be responsible for enforcement and/or intelligence, and personnel training and selection. Further background information establishes the state-of-the-art for State and local organized crime units in California, and a review is included of current function of State and local agencies regarding intelligence and enforcement. Also, the possible support roles of the Department of Justice in California are reviewed and related to the state-of-the-art of local government organized crime control efforts. The feasibility and capability of the special narcotic enforcement unit are shown in relation to the needs of the California Department of Justice and to its potential for supporting local law enforcement in organized crime and major narcotics trafficking investigations. Evidence suggests that the special unit could form the nucleus of a State strike force involving cooperation among several State law enforcement agencies. The unit's efforts could become a preventive measure in that the coordinated law enforcement effort could create an active counterforce against organized crime in the legislature, among citizens' groups, and in the public arena. The identities of law enforcement agencies participating in the unit's efforts and an organizational chart are appended, and 66 references are included. (Author abstract modified)