Legal Definitions - gang

A "gang" refers to a group of individuals who regularly associate with each other, often engaging in shared activities, particularly those that are unlawful, disruptive, or harmful to others. While not all groups with shared interests are considered gangs, the term typically implies a collective purpose that involves illegal conduct or a pattern of antisocial behavior. Such groups may sometimes adopt distinguishing symbols, colors, or signals to identify their members.

• Organized Retail Theft Ring
  Imagine a group of six individuals who consistently plan and execute shoplifting operations across various high-end department stores in different cities. They use encrypted communication channels, assign specific roles for each theft (e.g., lookout, distraction, actual theft), and then collectively sell the stolen merchandise online for profit.

  This scenario illustrates a "gang" because it involves a group of people who regularly "act in concert" with a clear and sustained criminal purpose: systematic theft and fencing of stolen goods. Their coordinated planning and execution demonstrate the collective nature of their illegal activities.

• Neighborhood Vandalism Group
  Consider a group of young adults in a suburban area who frequently gather late at night to spray-paint graffiti on public buildings, deface park benches, and damage private property. They often post videos of their destructive acts online, using specific tags and symbols to identify their work.

  This example fits the definition of a "gang" because it describes a group of individuals who "go about together" and "act in concert" for antisocial and criminal purposes (vandalism and property damage). The shared activity, the pattern of behavior, and the use of identifying symbols reinforce their collective identity and intent.

• Online Cybercrime Syndicate
  Picture a geographically dispersed group of skilled programmers and network specialists who collaborate exclusively online. They work together to develop and deploy sophisticated ransomware attacks against businesses, steal personal data for identity theft, and launder illicit funds through cryptocurrency. They communicate through secure, anonymous platforms and share profits from their illegal operations.

  This demonstrates a "gang" in a modern context. Even though the members do not physically "go about together," they "act in concert" through their coordinated online activities for a clear criminal purpose (cybercrime for financial gain). Their shared objectives, resources, and profits fulfill the core elements of the definition, highlighting that physical proximity is not always a requirement for a group to be considered a gang.