Organized crime is a problem in Connecticut, a state renowned for its picturesque towns and historic sites. Despite the state’s tiny size, it is home to several gangs that have impacted local communities through violent, extortion, and drug trafficking activities. These are the top five most dangerous gangs in Connecticut right now.
Kings of Latin
The Latin Kings are one of the biggest and best-organized street gangs in the United States, and they are well-established in Connecticut. The gang, which began in Chicago in the 1940s and spread across the country, is renowned for its rigid code of conduct and hierarchical organization.
Members of the Latin Kings are frequently implicated in violent crimes, drug distribution, and the trafficking of guns in Connecticut. The gang is active in cities such as New Haven, Bridgeport, and Hartford. They are renowned for using the five-pointed star, gold and black hues, and crowns as emblems of loyalty.
Gang on 18th Street (Barrio 18)
Originally from Los Angeles, Barrio 18, commonly referred to as the 18th Street Gang, has expanded throughout the United States, including Connecticut. Extreme brutality and a readiness to target anyone they perceive as a threat, including law enforcement and rival gangs, are characteristics of this gang.
Most of the cities in Connecticut where Barrio 18 operates are heavily populated by immigrants. They commit everything from violent robberies and assaults to drug trafficking and people smuggling. The number 18 appears in the gang’s hand gestures, tattoos, and graffiti.
Trinitarios
Over the years, a Dominican gang known as the Trinitarios has become more popular in Connecticut. This New York-based gang is well-known for its vicious methods and devotion to its members.
Trinitarios are frequently connected to violent crimes and drug trafficking in places like Stamford, Waterbury, and Danbury. A terrifying characteristic of the gang’s activities is the usage of machetes as their primary weapon. Their presence is frequently noticeable due to their characteristic green hues and Dominican patriotism.
Bloods
One of the most notorious street gangs in the United States, the Bloods, has set up shop in Connecticut. The Bloods, who first appeared in Los Angeles in the 1970s, are well-known for their intense rivalry with the Crips and their daring usage of the color red.
The Bloods are engaged in violent altercations, drug sales, and firearm trafficking in Connecticut. The Bloods, who mark their territory with tattoos, graffiti, and hand gestures, have been linked to considerable gang activity in cities like Hartford and New Haven.
Gangs of Outlaw Motorcyclists (OMGs)
Outlaw motorcycle gangs such as the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club and the Hells Angels have chapters in Connecticut. Despite the fact that these groups frequently pose as social organizations, law enforcement views them as extremely hazardous because of their involvement in violent territorial wars, extortion, and drug trafficking.
Although they have been known to conflict with rival gangs in major cities, Connecticut’s motorcycle gangs are mostly active in smaller towns and rural areas. Unmistakable signs of their presence include their gang insignias, leather jackets, and famous motorcycles.
In conclusion
These gangs present serious difficulties for Connecticut’s communities and law enforcement. Their actions disturb communities, put lives in jeopardy, and fuel violent and impoverished cycles.
Combating the expansion of gangs requires increasing awareness of their influence. The underlying causes of gang recruitment can be addressed by initiatives to promote marginalized areas, give at-risk youngsters opportunities, and bolster local policing tactics. Despite the complexity of the problem, communities in Connecticut are still striving for a safer and more promising future for everybody.
