1. Gangs

2. Gangs Group, organization, association Three or more individuals
Common purpose in criminal activity, either collectively or individually

3. Gangs Typically have paramilitary structure, hierarchies of leadership
May split into “sets”
Heavy emphasis on recruiting new members
Numbers = Safety

4. Gangs Members can be as young as 9 or 12 (peewees, wannabees)
Most are recruited in junior high--ages 13 or 14
Typical gang member is 14 to 20 (gangbangers)
Leaders are usually 18 to 20 with a few up to 24 or 25 (hardcores)
Entire families may be members with three generations represented

5. Gang Mindset Three basic fears Poverty Not fitting in
Disrespect (Being “dissed”)

6. Gang Mindset The Code of Honor
If you let yourself be disrespected, you’ve let the gang be disrespected, and you will face the consequences!

7. No Challenge Goes Unanswered!
The Gang Mindset
The Three R’s
Reputation (Rep)
Respect
Retaliation/Revenge
No Challenge Goes Unanswered!

8. Gang Characteristics
Clothing
Tattoos
Hand signs
Graffiti

9. Handling Gang Members EMS usually is perceived as “neutral”
Uniforms should look as different from law enforcement as possible
Avoid questions that can be perceived as “interrogation” about specifics of a crime
Demonstrate respect at all times, including when you’re not on calls

10. Handling Gang Members Know whose “turf” you’re on
Reluctant, tough behavior by patients may be posturing for other members
Explain what you’re doing and why
Treat possessions as extensions of persons
Use gang leaders to help you control situations

11. Handling Gang Members Pay attention to the crowd
Minimize time on scene
Know when to leave!

12. Gang DON’TS Don’t approach if multiple gangs present
Don’t assume you are welcome
Don’t separate patient until ready to leave
Don’t treat gang members in the open
Don’t cut “colors”, especially in public
Don’t treat gang members like children

13. Graffiti Gang name = Gang turf (usually)
Multiple gang names = Shared territory

14. Graffiti
Gang names written over, crossed out = Challenge or war

15. Graffiti
Black graffiti
Crude
Lacks detail
Often offensive

16. Graffiti Latino graffiti Colorful Artistically creative
Indicates cohesiveness
Identifies gang, territory
Used to communicate with other gangs

17. Graffiti White graffiti
Frequently includes slurs against minorities, homosexuals
Often contains names of Punk or Heavy Metal groups
Satanic, devil worship, Nazi symbols
Generally does not mark territory