Despite its rich history and different cities, organized crime and gang activity are problems in Ohio. The state has seen the rise of a number of violent gangs throughout the years that engage in criminal activities such extortion, robbery, drug trafficking, and assault. A detailed look at five of Ohio’s most deadly gangs and their effects on the local communities is provided here.
MS-13
Mara Salvatrucha, another name for MS-13, is a transnational gang that started in Los Angeles in the 1980s. It was first founded by immigrants from El Salvador who were escaping the civil strife in their homeland. Since then, MS-13 has spread throughout Ohio and the rest of the United States.
Known for its violent methods and machete use, MS-13 is involved in a variety of crimes, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, and kidnapping. The gang uses cities like Cleveland and Columbus to increase their influence in the Midwest, even though their presence in Ohio isn’t as strong as it is in California.
Uncaring Felons
One of the most dreaded gangs in Ohio is the Heartless Felons, which has its roots in the state’s prison system. With a well-organized organization and stringent regulations, the gang works both inside and outside of correctional facilities.
They engage in brutal attacks, armed robberies, and drug delivery. The Heartless Felons are notorious for their hold on some areas in places like Cleveland and Akron, where their influence fosters a culture of dread. They are also notorious for enlisting young people, frequently focusing on weaker members in high-crime regions.
Crips
Even though the Crips are frequently linked to California, their influence goes well beyond the West Coast. The cities of Columbus, Toledo, and Cincinnati are home to subsets of the Crips in Ohio.
These organizations engage in violent crimes, thievery, and drug trafficking. Members establish a noticeable presence in the regions they manage by frequently identifying with the color blue and particular hand signals. Their influence has fueled bloodshed in Ohio towns by contributing to continuous battles with rival gangs.
The Motorcycle Club of Outlaws
One of the oldest and most infamous motorcycle gangs in the United States, the Outlaws Motorcycle Club, is well-represented in Ohio. Distinguished by their black-and-white emblems and image as a “outlaw” organization, the club engages in criminal activities such as drug production, extortion, and violent reprisals against competitors.
With its extensive highway system, Ohio is a vital site for the Outlaws’ activities. The club affects both urban and rural areas by using the state as a distribution center for drugs and other illicit activities.
Sur 13
Another California-based gang that has spread to Ohio is called Sur 13, or Sureños 13. The gang engages in violent crimes, extortion, and drug trafficking; it has connections to the Mexican Mafia.
Members of Sur 13 frequently use graffiti to indicate their areas and identify with the numbers 13 and blue. They are particularly prevalent in Springfield and Dayton, where their operations have exacerbated gang-related conflicts and increased crime rates.
In conclusion
The safety and stability of Ohio are being threatened by these gangs. Their actions not only hurt individuals but also upend entire communities, creating vicious cycles of fear and violence.
A combination of community awareness campaigns, law enforcement initiatives, and initiatives that give at-risk adolescents opportunity are needed to address this problem. Ohio can endeavor to break the hold of organized crime and create safer areas by comprehending the influence of these gangs.