Florida, a state renowned for its lively neighborhoods and sunny beaches, also has to contend with criminal groups that operate there. Some of these gangs are well-known for their violent crimes, which include extortion, drug trafficking, and other major offenses. These are five of the most violent gangs that are active in Florida right now.
1. Kings of Latin
One of the biggest and most established Hispanic street gangs in the US, the Latin Kings, is well-established in Florida. The gang was established in Chicago in the 1940s and has since spread across the country, with Florida emerging as a key base in recent years. They adhere to a rigid code of conduct and frequently call themselves a “family.”
The Latin Kings are engaged in violent crimes like assault and murder, as well as drug and weapon smuggling. Over the years, the gang’s power has grown in Florida, posing a serious danger to local police enforcement in places like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa.
2. Gangsters’ Apprentices
Another strong gang that operates in Florida is the Gangster Disciples, which was first established in Chicago. They are notorious for their strict hierarchy and well-organized organization, and they engage in a range of illegal operations, such as violence, robberies, and drug sales.
Cities like Jacksonville and Tallahassee in northern Florida have seen a surge in the Gangster Disciples’ activity. Younger members are frequently the focus of their recruitment campaigns, which has helped them grow quickly in the area.
3. MS-13
The worldwide gang known as MS-13, or Mara Salvatrucha, got its start in Los Angeles in the 1980s. MS-13, which is notorious for its violent methods and reputation, has gained traction in Florida, particularly in regions with sizable immigrant populations.
MS-13 members are well-known for their roles in violent crimes, drug trafficking, and human smuggling. There have been reports of MS-13 activity in cities like Fort Lauderdale and Tampa, and law enforcement officials are still concerned about their presence.
4. Brotherhood of the Aryans
One of the most notorious prison gangs in the US, the Aryan Brotherhood, has spread its influence outside of prisons and onto Florida’s streets. This gang, which calls itself a white supremacist organization, engages in extortion, drug distribution, and murder-for-hire operations.
The Aryan Brotherhood has been connected to violent turf conflicts and methamphetamine distribution networks in Florida. They are especially prevalent in smaller towns and rural locations where law enforcement resources are limited.
5. Pound, Zoe
In the 1990s, the Haitian-American gang Zoe Pound was established in Miami. With operations including drug trafficking, armed robbery, and money laundering, it has developed into one of South Florida’s most powerful criminal organizations.
In Miami and Fort Lauderdale, where it still controls a sizable chunk of the drug trade, Zoe Pound is particularly active. The gang is a powerful influence in Florida’s criminal underground because of its brutal enforcement methods and its connections to global drug cartels.
In conclusion
The safety and welfare of Florida’s communities are being threatened by these gangs. They have an impact on small towns and rural neighborhoods in addition to urban places. In order to prevent recruitment and provide at-risk kids with options, addressing this issue calls for a combination of successful law enforcement tactics and community support initiatives.
Floridians can cooperate to counteract the effect of these gangs and make their communities safer for all by remaining aware and watchful.