Drugs, Gangs, and Organized Crimes: Analyzing Gang Activity and Policy

This report delves into the complex relationship between drugs, gangs, and organized crime, with a specific focus on the MS-13 gang. It begins by analyzing a significant statement made by a public figure and its impact on the perception and treatment of gangs, particularly MS-13. The report highlights the significance of the statement in shaping public opinion and policy. It also discusses the origin of the MS-13 and M-18 gangs, the geographic presence of MS-13 across the United States, and the disproportionate attention it receives compared to its actual impact on violent crime trends. The report references specific sources, including C-SPAN and academic publications, to support its arguments and provide context. The report concludes by emphasizing the need for a balanced understanding of the gang's influence and the importance of accurate information in shaping policies and public discourse regarding gangs and organized crime.

Running head: DRUGS GANGS AND ORGANIZED CRIMES
DRUGS GANGS AND ORGANIZED CRIMES
Name of Student
Name of University
Author Note

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Significance of the Statement
The statement mentioned here is of significance because it clears the controversy
regarding the President referring to MS-13 as animals during an immigration roundtable with the
sheriffs of California (C-SPAN, 2018). After the statement was published there had been a
change in the court precedent to discourage the approval of the requests of the asylums based on
gang violence. Extreme measure has been taken by the administration by announcing that many
of the asylum seekers would be waiting in Mexico when their claims would be considered.
Myths
One myth that president can be seen to be relying upon was that the M-13 and M-18
gangs are spreading across the United States. The M-13 gangs were seen to be originating in El
Salvador under poor neighborhoods and dysfunctional families and the Mexican immigrants
formed M-18 in Los Angeles under similar conditions (Ward, 2013). As per the Organized
Crime and Gang section of the US department of Justice MS-13 was seen to be present in 46
states and in thee District of Columbia in the year 2015.
Effect of the statement on the Gang activity
It can be seen from various reports that after the statement from the President the
attention received by the MS-13 has been disproportionate to its impact. The nationwide trends
of the declination of violent crimes had not been reversed because of MS-13 even in the area

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where they hold the most power. Although MS-13 has been responsible for the gruesome crimes
however it cannot be considered as a major criminal presence at the national level.

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Reference
C-SPAN. (2018). Actual Statement IN CONTEXT by the President on MS-13 'animals'.
Retrieved 19 August 2019, from https://www.c-span.org/video/?c4730047/actual-
statement-context-president-ms-13-animals
Ward, T. W. (2013). Gangsters without borders: An ethnography of a Salvadoran street gang.
Oxford: Oxford University Press.

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