The gangs that exist in our society today are notorious for committing violent crimes, murder and dealing drugs. Society sees gangs as being tightly-knit organizations that are out to make profits through crime sprees and drug deals. However, society’s perception may not be accurate.

"Gang laws" around the nation are drastically extending the prison sentences of criminals who are believed to be gang members. But how do we really know when a crime is gang-related or how involved the perpetrator was in a gang? Youths are often mistakenly identified as gang members because of where they live and with whom they associate. They are even prosecuted for being in the "wrong place at the wrong time." This mistake can add years to a person's jail time and often sends them away for life. With over fifty years experience working with gang members in and out of prison, Dr. Lewis Yablonskywill introduce you to the gang world. Through his research he will explain the various types of gangs, gang behavior and the six catagories of gang members.

Helpful to defense attorneys, prosecuting attorneys, police and psychologists, this text will provide you with insights into gangs and gang behavior and will help you identify when a gang-related crime has been committed or when it’s just a case of juvenile delinquency.