Each state has specific laws outlining specific criteria and characteristics defining what a “gang” is and what classifies a person as a ”gang member.” Research the laws that define these terms for your state and answer the following questions:
What criteria or characteristics must be identified or documented before a group is considered a “gang” for legal purposes?
What criteria or characteristics must be identified or documented before an individual is considered a “gang member” for legal purposes?
In reviewing the legal criteria for each of these classifications, do you see any gaps or any characteristics that you believe should be included? If you answer “yes,” outline the additional criteria and discuss why you believe it should be included. If no, do you see any legal gaps that might allow for a group or person meeting these characteristics to argue that they are NOT a gang or gang member
QUESTION 2) in American Street Gangs, you will see a number of theories that explain why gangs form and exist. These theories include:
Biological Theories
Psychological Theories
Personality Trait Theories
Sociological Theories
Sample Solution