Law enforcement agencies focus a great deal of resources on combating gangs and organized crime given the significant threat they pose to public safety. Previous efforts by police to combat gangs and organized crime have culminated in increased arrests. Despite such efforts, the prevalence of gangs and organized crime remains the same. Why is this the case? Simply, gangs and organized crime arise from widespread societal issues ranging from poverty to lack of opportunity.
To be effective, law enforcement agencies must address these and other core issues that contribute to the development and proliferation of gangs and organized crime. To do so, many are working collaboratively with community members, social service agencies, businesses, and other law enforcement agencies. For example, the FBI has created a specialized unit, known as the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), in which several federal agencies work with regional and local law enforcement agencies to combat organized crime groups that traffic drugs and/or launder money. There are also anti-gang task forces comprised of community outreach groups, concerned community members, and law enforcement agencies. The most effective interventions include the cooperation of multiple law enforcement agencies, social service agencies, neighborhoods, and even businesses. Some community-based interventions are designed to quell the development of gangs and organized crime groups from the “inside out” by preventing adolescents from joining these criminal groups. Others seek to open lines of communication between community members and law enforcement so that community members will feel comfortable providing information to the police.
To prepare for this Discussion:
- Review Chapter 6 of your course text, Drugs, Gangs, and Organized Crime. Reflect on the intervention strategies that have been implemented to reduce gangs and gang violence.
- Review Chapter 16 of your course text, Drugs, Gangs, and Organized Crime. Focus on the law enforcement agencies that are important in fighting organized crime. Consider whether these agencies are able to reduce the amount of crime committed by organized crime groups.
- Review the website, “DEA Programs Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF).” Consider the role that the OCDETF plays in fighting drug trafficking and money laundering.
- Identify two challenges that law enforcement faces when combating gangs and organized crime groups. Consider the legal and/or community-based interventions that could be used to overcome these challenges.
With these thoughts in mind:
Post by Day 3 a brief description of two law enforcement challenges related to addressing gangs and organized crime. Then, explain how specific legal and/or community-based interventions might be used to address each challenge. Be specific.
PLEASE USE REFERENCE FROM THE BOOK:DRUGS GANGS AND ORGANIZED CRIME BY SHELDON, BROWN, TRACY AND ABADINSKY, 2010 CONCISE EDITION
THIS A DISCUSSION TOPIC WHICH SHOULD BE 250 WORDS.
