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Introduction
Street gang is a term that law enforcement in Canada has traditionally used to categorize crime groups that consist predominantly of young males from a similar ethnic background who have a group name identifier that may be complemented with common gang paraphernalia, tattoos, clothing and induction rituals.
The challenge for law enforcement is to adapt constantly in order to effectively respond to organized crime groups that form alliances in order to achieve their goals. Intelligence is the key to success. Chief William Blair, |
As well, they were often engaged in lower levels of criminality usually based within a specific geographical area, particularly larger urban centres, and in some manner linked to the illicit drug trade.
This profile continues to have some validity, though emerging street gangs may be more multi-ethnic in their membership with an increased presence within smaller urban communities and rural areas. The majority of street gangs across Canada still operate at a lower level of criminality, with no apparent ambition or capability to expand from their defined area of operation. 
Some street gangs are more sophisticated than others and are capable of multiple higher-level criminal activities within a criminal market and with an expanded geographical scope.
Street gang activities often impact more directly on the general public as well as the operations of law enforcement. Street gang criminality in many jurisdictions is a daily occurrence requiring a constant allocation of police resources. Street gangs pose a further public safety threat through their high propensity for violence. While most organized crime groups will use violence to advance their criminal ventures, it is not typically utilized with the regularity, spontaneity and disregard for public safety displayed by street gangs.
As street gangs are clearly a concern for many Canadians, and because these groups are a significant component of the Canadian organized crime environment, they serve as an appropriate topic for this year’s Feature Focus.
Organized crime in the form of outlaw motorcycle gangs and localized street gangs poses a significant threat to society both in terms of street crime and its associated violence. However, the investment of the proceeds of crime in legitimate business enterprises is an even more insidious threat. Chief Jack Ewatski, |
