Top 10 Dangerous Gangs in United States

Here is an overview of ten of the most dangerous gangs in the United States, based on their criminal activities and influence:

1. MS-13 (Mara Salvatrucha)

• Origin: Los Angeles, California, with roots in El Salvador.
• Crimes: Drug trafficking, human trafficking, extortion, and brutal homicides.
• Reach: Active across the U.S. and Central America.
• Notoriety: Known for extreme violence, including machete attacks.

2. Bloods

• Origin: Los Angeles, California, in the 1970s.
• Crimes: Drug distribution, robbery, murder, and racketeering.
• Reach: National, with strongholds in urban areas.
• Notoriety: Distinct red clothing and rivalry with the Crips.

3. Crips

• Origin: Los Angeles, California, in the 1960s.
• Crimes: Drug trafficking, extortion, theft, and violence.
• Reach: Nationwide and international connections.
• Notoriety: Known for their blue attire and long-standing feud with the Bloods.

4. Aryan Brotherhood

• Origin: California prison system in the 1960s.
• Crimes: Drug trafficking, murder-for-hire, and hate crimes.
• Reach: Active in prisons and on the streets nationwide.
• Notoriety: White supremacist ideology and brutal enforcement tactics.

5. Latin Kings

• Origin: Chicago, Illinois, in the 1940s.
• Crimes: Drug distribution, assault, and murder.
• Reach: Present in multiple states and Latin American countries.
• Notoriety: Hierarchical structure with a mix of cultural pride and criminal enterprise.

6. Mexican Mafia (La Eme)

• Origin: California prison system in the 1950s.
• Crimes: Drug trafficking, murder, extortion, and controlling other Latino gangs.
• Reach: Predominantly in California and the Southwest.
• Notoriety: Known for extreme influence within prisons.

7. Hells Angels Motorcycle Club

• Origin: California, in 1948.
• Crimes: Drug trafficking, weapons smuggling, and organized crime.
• Reach: Global, with numerous U.S. chapters.
• Notoriety: Biker gang image and involvement in violent disputes.

8. Gangster Disciples

• Origin: Chicago, Illinois, in the 1960s.
• Crimes: Drug trade, violence, and organized crime.
• Reach: National, with roots in Chicago.
• Notoriety: Identifiable symbols like the Star of David.

9. Black Guerrilla Family

• Origin: California prisons in the 1960s.
• Crimes: Drug trafficking, murder, and extortion.
• Reach: Strong in prisons, with connections outside.
• Notoriety: Politically charged ideology mixed with criminal activities.

10. 18th Street Gang

• Origin: Los Angeles, California, in the 1980s.
• Crimes: Drug trafficking, robbery, and murder.
• Reach: Nationwide and in Latin America.
• Notoriety: Recruits from diverse ethnic backgrounds, rivaling MS-13.

Disclaimer:

Gang activities often vary by region and time, and law enforcement agencies continuously monitor and counteract their influence. Always consult updated sources for current insights.