New Jersey, like many other states, has struggled with the presence of organized crime and gang activity. While law enforcement continues to work diligently to combat gang-related violence and drug trafficking, certain groups remain a serious threat to public safety.
From narcotics distribution to violent street crimes, these gangs have become increasingly powerful and dangerous in recent years. Here are the five most dangerous gangs operating in New Jersey right now.
1. The Bloods
One of the most notorious and well-known gangs in the United States, the Bloods have a significant presence in New Jersey. Originally formed in Los Angeles in the 1970s to rival the Crips, the Bloods have since expanded nationwide, including a stronghold in New Jersey’s urban areas. Known for their violent tactics and drug trafficking operations, the Bloods are involved in various criminal activities, including robbery, assault, and homicide.
In New Jersey, the Bloods have been tied to gang violence in cities like Newark, Trenton, and Camden. They are heavily involved in the distribution of illegal drugs, especially crack cocaine and heroin. Law enforcement has made multiple efforts to dismantle their operations, but the Bloods continue to operate with a high level of organization and violence.
Why They’re Dangerous:
The Bloods are extremely violent, using intimidation and aggression to maintain control of neighborhoods. Their involvement in drug distribution and their propensity for violence make them one of the deadliest gangs in New Jersey.
2. The Crips
As the primary rivals of the Bloods, the Crips are another gang that has long held a dangerous presence in New Jersey. Like the Bloods, the Crips began in Los Angeles in the early 1970s and have since expanded across the country. In New Jersey, the Crips have a significant presence in cities like Paterson, Newark, and Camden, where they are involved in drug trafficking, violent crime, and street-level violence.
The Crips are notorious for their violent altercations with rival gangs, particularly the Bloods. These turf wars often result in shootings, assaults, and murders. They also operate in illegal activities such as extortion, robbery, and human trafficking. While their presence has been somewhat reduced by law enforcement in certain areas, the Crips remain a significant threat in parts of New Jersey.
Why They’re Dangerous:
The Crips are dangerous due to their sheer size, violent tendencies, and their continued involvement in drug trafficking. Their rivalry with the Bloods fuels ongoing conflicts and crime in New Jersey.
3. The Latin Kings
The Latin Kings are one of the most powerful and dangerous Latino gangs in the United States. Originating in Chicago in the 1940s, they have since expanded across the country, including a significant presence in New Jersey. The Latin Kings are known for their strict code of conduct, loyalty to the gang, and a reputation for violent retaliation against those who oppose them.
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In New Jersey, the Latin Kings are involved in a range of criminal activities, from drug trafficking to extortion and human trafficking. They have a notorious presence in cities like Jersey City, Newark, and Elizabeth. The Latin Kings often recruit young members from impoverished neighborhoods, making them a persistent and growing force in the state.
Why They’re Dangerous:
The Latin Kings’ organizational structure and large membership make them a formidable opponent for law enforcement. Their violent nature, along with their involvement in illegal activities, poses a significant threat to New Jersey’s communities.
4. The 18th Street Gang
The 18th Street Gang, also known as “18th Street” or “Barrio 18,” is an international street gang that originated in California in the early 1980s. While they are primarily known for their presence in Los Angeles, the 18th Street Gang has expanded its operations into New Jersey, where they are involved in violent crime, drug trafficking, and even human smuggling.
In New Jersey, the 18th Street Gang has been linked to numerous criminal activities, including assaults, shootings, and robberies. Their membership is diverse, with many Latino and African American members. The gang’s violent confrontations with rival groups, particularly the MS-13, have contributed to a rise in gang-related violence in parts of New Jersey.
Why They’re Dangerous:
The 18th Street Gang is particularly dangerous because of their aggressive expansion tactics and their involvement in multiple criminal activities. Their willingness to use extreme violence and their gang wars with other factions make them a serious threat to public safety.
5. MS-13 (Mara Salvatrucha)
Mara Salvatrucha, or MS-13, is one of the most infamous gangs in the world, known for its extreme violence, particularly in its interactions with rivals. While the gang originated in California, it has since spread across the United States, including a notable presence in New Jersey. MS-13 is heavily involved in drug trafficking, extortion, and human trafficking, as well as violent street crimes such as robbery, assault, and murder.
In New Jersey, MS-13 has established a foothold in areas with high Latino populations, particularly in towns like Elizabeth and Newark. The gang is known for its brutal tactics, often using machetes, firearms, and other weapons to intimidate and eliminate rivals. Their crimes have contributed to a growing concern among law enforcement and communities in the state.
Why They’re Dangerous:
MS-13 is feared for their brutal violence and ruthless mentality. Their international presence and involvement in organized crime make them one of the deadliest gangs operating in New Jersey.
Conclusion: The Ongoing Battle Against Gang Violence in New Jersey
The presence of dangerous gangs like the Bloods, Crips, Latin Kings, 18th Street, and MS-13 continues to be a serious issue in New Jersey. These organizations are responsible for a significant portion of the state’s violent crime, drug trafficking, and gang-related activities.
Law enforcement agencies are continually working to combat these threats, but the gangs’ persistence and expansion tactics make them a formidable challenge.
The community must remain vigilant and continue to support efforts to reduce gang influence, including providing education, job opportunities, and alternatives to gang life for at-risk youth. In the battle against gang violence, everyone has a role to play in keeping New Jersey safe.