2009 Gang Report South Carolina - How Much How Bad?

Gangs and Crime Gangs and Crime
in South Carolina: in South Carolina:
How Much, How Bad? How Much, How Bad?
Prepared by: Prepared by:
South Carolina Department of Public Safety South Carolina Department of Public Safety
Office of Justice Programs Office of Justice Programs
Statistical Analysis Center Statistical Analysis Center
Editor: Rob McManus Editor: Rob McManus
This publication was partially funded with $8,250 from Federal This publication was partially funded with $8,250 from Federal
Grant Number 2007-BJ-CX-K017 from the United States Grant Number 2007-BJ-CX-K017 from the United States
Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Statistics. Points of view Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Statistics. Points of view
or opinions stated are those of the principal researcher and do not or opinions stated are those of the principal researcher and do not
necessarily represent the opinion or official position of the United necessarily represent the opinion or official position of the United
States Department of Justice. States Department of Justice.
TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION
MEASURING GANG ACTIVITY .........................3 MEASURING GANG ACTIVITY .........................3
GANG RELATED CRIME .....................................9 GANG RELATED CRIME .....................................9

Trends & Circumstances...................................10 Trends & Circumstances...................................10
Victim Characteristics.......................................34 Victim Characteristics.......................................34
Offender Characteristics ...................................52 Offender Characteristics ...................................52
GANG RELATED MURDER...............................67 GANG RELATED MURDER...............................67

Trends & Circumstances...................................68 Trends & Circumstances...................................68
Victim Characteristics.......................................80 Victim Characteristics.......................................80
Offender Characteristics ...................................94 Offender Characteristics ...................................94
GANGS IN PRISON ...........................................107 GANGS IN PRISON ...........................................107
GANGS IN COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS....123 GANGS IN COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS....123
SUMMARY.........................................................139 SUMMARY.........................................................139
SOURCES............................................................145 SOURCES............................................................145
INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION
Gangs and Crime in South Carolina: How Much, How Gangs and Crime in South Carolina: How Much, How
Bad? is designed to provide information about criminal Bad? is designed to provide information about criminal
activity attributed to gangs, victims of gang activity, activity attributed to gangs, victims of gang activity,
gang offenders, and to provide estimates of gang gang offenders, and to provide estimates of gang
membership in South Carolina’s prison population and membership in South Carolina’s prison population and
among offenders under supervision in the community. among offenders under supervision in the community.
The purpose of the report is to provide reliable and The purpose of the report is to provide reliable and
objective information regarding a serious societal objective information regarding a serious societal
problem about which little information is readily problem about which little information is readily
available. Hopefully it will serve to better inform policy available. Hopefully it will serve to better inform policy
makers and citizens about the nature and extent of this makers and citizens about the nature and extent of this
serious problem. serious problem.
Data concerning gang crime for this report were Data concerning gang crime for this report were
provided by the State Law Enforcement Division provided by the State Law Enforcement Division
(SLED), the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SLED), the South Carolina Department of Corrections
(SCDC) and the South Carolina Department of (SCDC) and the South Carolina Department of
Probation, Parole and Pardon Services (SCDPPPS). Probation, Parole and Pardon Services (SCDPPPS).
Copies of this report or information regarding this Copies of this report or information regarding this
publication can be obtained by writing or sending publication can be obtained by writing or sending
electronic mail requests to the following: electronic mail requests to the following:
South Carolina Department of Public Safety South Carolina Department of Public Safety
Office of Justice Programs Office of Justice Programs
Statistical Analysis Center Statistical Analysis Center
PO Box 1993 PO Box 1993
Blythewood, South Carolina 29016 Blythewood, South Carolina 29016
robertmcmanus@scdps.net robertmcmanus@scdps.net
This report can also be accessed at the South Carolina This report can also be accessed at the South Carolina
Department of Public Safety’s website for the Office of Department of Public Safety’s website for the Office of
Justice Programs at: Justice Programs at:
http://www.scdps.org/ojp/statistics.asp http://www.scdps.org/ojp/statistics.asp
Measuring Gang Activity Measuring Gang Activity
This report utilizes three sources of information This report utilizes three sources of information
concerning gang activity. The first source is the South concerning gang activity. The first source is the South
Carolina Incident Based Reporting System (SCIBRS) Carolina Incident Based Reporting System (SCIBRS)
which provides information concerning reported crimes. which provides information concerning reported crimes.
The second source is information from inmate records at The second source is information from inmate records at
SCDC. The third source is information from offender SCDC. The third source is information from offender
records from SCDPPPS. Each of these data sources is records from SCDPPPS. Each of these data sources is
different in terms of the data collected and the different in terms of the data collected and the
perspective each data source provides regarding the perspective each data source provides regarding the
nature and extent of criminal gang activity in the state. nature and extent of criminal gang activity in the state.
SCIBRS data starts with the statewide uniform incident SCIBRS data starts with the statewide uniform incident
report. The statewide uniform incident report is filled report. The statewide uniform incident report is filled
out whenever a criminal event is reported to law out whenever a criminal event is reported to law
enforcement. The responding officer fills out the enforcement. The responding officer fills out the
incident report which contains detailed information incident report which contains detailed information
about the incident, the victim and the offender as well as about the incident, the victim and the offender as well as
any associated arrests. This information is then entered any associated arrests. This information is then entered
into SCIBRS, which is maintained by SLED. Analysis into SCIBRS, which is maintained by SLED. Analysis
of SCIBRS data will often vary from published crime of SCIBRS data will often vary from published crime
rates and counts for a variety of reasons. Chief among rates and counts for a variety of reasons. Chief among
them is that SCIBRS data allows for the flexibility to them is that SCIBRS data allows for the flexibility to
use whatever unit of count (victim, offense, offender, use whatever unit of count (victim, offense, offender,
arrestee, etc.) is most appropriate. Also, SCIBRS does arrestee, etc.) is most appropriate. Also, SCIBRS does
not restrict analysis to use of the most serious offense, not restrict analysis to use of the most serious offense,
as is often the case with reported crime rates. SCIBRS as is often the case with reported crime rates. SCIBRS
data from 1998 through 2007 provides the primary data from 1998 through 2007 provides the primary
source of crime data for this report. source of crime data for this report.
Although the question as to what constitutes a gang is Although the question as to what constitutes a gang is
the subject of intense debate, for the purpose of crime the subject of intense debate, for the purpose of crime
reporting, SCIBRS has an objective definition of gangs. reporting, SCIBRS has an objective definition of gangs.
3 3
SCIBRS defines a gang as an ongoing organization, SCIBRS defines a gang as an ongoing organization,
association, or group of three or more persons who have association, or group of three or more persons who have
common interests and activities characterized by common interests and activities characterized by
involvement in a pattern of criminal or delinquent involvement in a pattern of criminal or delinquent
conduct (an organized group that commits crimes on a conduct (an organized group that commits crimes on a
regular basis). For this report, gang related offenses regular basis). For this report, gang related offenses
were identified by the use of a special circumstances were identified by the use of a special circumstances
code or a type criminal activity code designating the code or a type criminal activity code designating the
offense as gang related. offense as gang related.
To understand crime data it is important to understand To understand crime data it is important to understand
what a particular count is based upon. This report uses what a particular count is based upon. This report uses
counts based on the number of incidents, offenses, counts based on the number of incidents, offenses,
victims and offenders. Understanding the unit of count victims and offenders. Understanding the unit of count
can be further complicated when there are multiple can be further complicated when there are multiple
instances of a factor of interest within a unit of count. instances of a factor of interest within a unit of count.
As an example, SCIBRS collects information As an example, SCIBRS collects information
concerning up to three weapon types per offense. concerning up to three weapon types per offense.
However, not all offenses involve weapons while some However, not all offenses involve weapons while some
offenses involve more than one type of weapon. offenses involve more than one type of weapon.
Consequently, the number of weapons might be more, Consequently, the number of weapons might be more,
less or equal to the number of incidents, depending on less or equal to the number of incidents, depending on
the circumstances. Because such situations can result in the circumstances. Because such situations can result in
results that are counter-intuitive, every effort will be results that are counter-intuitive, every effort will be
made to put findings in the proper context throughout made to put findings in the proper context throughout
the report. the report.
SCDC collects and records data concerning gang SCDC collects and records data concerning gang
membership among its inmates and has well defined membership among its inmates and has well defined
policies and procedures. Trained staff, the Security policies and procedures. Trained staff, the Security
Threat Group (STG), identifies gang members during Threat Group (STG), identifies gang members during
the intake (admissions) process. The identification the intake (admissions) process. The identification
process includes an examination for tattoos, a review of process includes an examination for tattoos, a review of
4 4
inmate possessions for evidence of gang affiliation, inmate possessions for evidence of gang affiliation,
inmate interviews and self-reports, observed use of gang inmate interviews and self-reports, observed use of gang
hand signs, possession of symbols and logos, as well as hand signs, possession of symbols and logos, as well as
information received from other sources. information received from other sources.
SCDPPPS collects data concerning gang membership SCDPPPS collects data concerning gang membership
among the offenders under its supervision. Probation among the offenders under its supervision. Probation
and Parole Agents, responsible for supervising offenders and Parole Agents, responsible for supervising offenders
in the community, identify gang members and enter that in the community, identify gang members and enter that
information into the offender information system. That information into the offender information system. That
designation and the associated data then becomes part of designation and the associated data then becomes part of
the offender record. the offender record.
Calculating rates: Calculating rates:
The method of calculating rates is illustrated by the The method of calculating rates is illustrated by the
following equation: following equation:
Rate = Number of Victims, Offenses or Offenders X 10,000 Rate = Number of Victims, Offenses or Offenders X 10,000
Population or Sub-population Population or Sub-population
All rates in this report are expressed as the rate per All rates in this report are expressed as the rate per
10,000 unit of population. 10,000 unit of population.
Population estimates used to calculate offense, Population estimates used to calculate offense,
victimization and offender rates for the total population victimization and offender rates for the total population
and sub-populations of interest were provided by the and sub-populations of interest were provided by the
Office of Research and Statistics (ORS) at the South Office of Research and Statistics (ORS) at the South
Carolina Budget and Control Board. Carolina Budget and Control Board.
5 5
Data limitations/caveats: Data limitations/caveats:
As noted earlier, some information is reported by As noted earlier, some information is reported by
looking at multiple fields within a record. As examples, looking at multiple fields within a record. As examples,
SCIBRS records information concerning up to five SCIBRS records information concerning up to five
offenses per victim, ten victim to offender relationships offenses per victim, ten victim to offender relationships
per victim and up to three weapon types per incident. per victim and up to three weapon types per incident.
These and similar situations, in combination with These and similar situations, in combination with
missing data, often result in totals that seemingly “don’t missing data, often result in totals that seemingly “don’t
add up.” Footnotes are used as a means of providing as add up.” Footnotes are used as a means of providing as
detailed explanations of such circumstances as possible. detailed explanations of such circumstances as possible.
Comparisons across time, demographic groups or Comparisons across time, demographic groups or
geographic regions can best be made using rates (per geographic regions can best be made using rates (per
10,000 in this report) and that procedure is used in this 10,000 in this report) and that procedure is used in this
report. However, when the actual number of report. However, when the actual number of
occurrences is so small that a small change in the occurrences is so small that a small change in the
number of occurrences results in a large rate change, the number of occurrences results in a large rate change, the
comparison of rates can be misleading. Such situations comparison of rates can be misleading. Such situations
are noted throughout the report. are noted throughout the report.
Population estimates were not always available in such a Population estimates were not always available in such a
manner as to make calculation of rates for each sub- manner as to make calculation of rates for each sub-
group of interest practical. In the case of race, group of interest practical. In the case of race,
victimization and offender rate race comparisons were victimization and offender rate race comparisons were
made on the basis of White and Non-White (Asian, made on the basis of White and Non-White (Asian,
Black and Native American). This was due to the non- Black and Native American). This was due to the non-
availability of those population subgroup estimates over availability of those population subgroup estimates over
the time period of interest. Similarly, reliable the time period of interest. Similarly, reliable
population estimates for ethnicity (Hispanic, Non- population estimates for ethnicity (Hispanic, Non-
Hispanic) were available from 2004 forward. Hispanic) were available from 2004 forward.
Consequently, rate calculations and comparisons Consequently, rate calculations and comparisons
relating to ethnicity were limited to that time frame. relating to ethnicity were limited to that time frame.
6 6
Time periods for the data presented are noted Time periods for the data presented are noted
throughout the report. Sometimes the data were throughout the report. Sometimes the data were
presented on a fiscal year basis. All references to fiscal presented on a fiscal year basis. All references to fiscal
years refer to the state fiscal year which begins on July 1 years refer to the state fiscal year which begins on July 1
and ends on June 30 of the following year. Fiscal years and ends on June 30 of the following year. Fiscal years
are identified by the year in which the fiscal year ended, are identified by the year in which the fiscal year ended,
for example the fiscal year that began on July 1, 1999 is for example the fiscal year that began on July 1, 1999 is
referred to as fiscal year 2000. Fiscal years are referred to as fiscal year 2000. Fiscal years are
abbreviated by using FY followed by the last two digits abbreviated by using FY followed by the last two digits
of the year in which the fiscal year ended. of the year in which the fiscal year ended.
Age data were sometimes entered into SCIBRS as a Age data were sometimes entered into SCIBRS as a
range. Age range data were included, whenever range. Age range data were included, whenever
possible. For example, an age range recorded as 10 to possible. For example, an age range recorded as 10 to
14 would be included in the 10 to 16 age category, but 14 would be included in the 10 to 16 age category, but
would be excluded when it crossed age categories of would be excluded when it crossed age categories of
interest, for example, an age category of 10 to 11. interest, for example, an age category of 10 to 11.
Seemingly incongruous age ranges; e.g., 10 to 25, were Seemingly incongruous age ranges; e.g., 10 to 25, were
treated as missing data. Age ranges were not used in treated as missing data. Age ranges were not used in
calculating mean average ages. calculating mean average ages.
Finally, there are occasions when the percentages listed Finally, there are occasions when the percentages listed
in tables do not add up to 100%. This is due to the in tables do not add up to 100%. This is due to the
rounding procedures used and is not indicative of any rounding procedures used and is not indicative of any
errors in calculation. These situations are noted in the errors in calculation. These situations are noted in the
footnotes following data tables throughout the report. footnotes following data tables throughout the report.
7 7
8 8
Gang Related Crime Gang Related Crime
The following section uses SCIBRS as the source of The following section uses SCIBRS as the source of
information to examine gang related crime in South information to examine gang related crime in South
Carolina, focusing primarily on violent crime. For the Carolina, focusing primarily on violent crime. For the
purpose of this report, the following offenses were purpose of this report, the following offenses were
defined as violent: murder, negligent homicide, rape, defined as violent: murder, negligent homicide, rape,
forcible sodomy, sexual assault with an object, forcible forcible sodomy, sexual assault with an object, forcible
fondling, kidnapping, robbery, aggravated assault, fondling, kidnapping, robbery, aggravated assault,
simple assault and intimidation. Rape, forcible sodomy, simple assault and intimidation. Rape, forcible sodomy,
sexual assault with an object and forcible fondling were sexual assault with an object and forcible fondling were
grouped together as sexual violence. grouped together as sexual violence.
SCIBRS has been in operation since 1991, SLED SCIBRS has been in operation since 1991, SLED
having served as the pilot site for the Federal Bureau of having served as the pilot site for the Federal Bureau of
Investigation’s implementation of the National Incident Investigation’s implementation of the National Incident
Based Reporting System that year. SCIBRS data from Based Reporting System that year. SCIBRS data from
1998 through 2007 were used as the primary basis for 1998 through 2007 were used as the primary basis for
analysis. In order to identify the victims and offenders analysis. In order to identify the victims and offenders
involved in gang offenses, victim and offender files involved in gang offenses, victim and offender files
were linked to incident files identified as being gang were linked to incident files identified as being gang
related. Depending upon the question at hand, the most related. Depending upon the question at hand, the most
meaningful measure of gang activity was employed. It meaningful measure of gang activity was employed. It
is important to note that such decisions are inherently is important to note that such decisions are inherently
subjective, and that employing different methods can subjective, and that employing different methods can
yield varying results. yield varying results.
9 9
The gang incident rate was 2.96 in 2007. The The gang incident rate was 2.96 in 2007. The
incident rate increased each year from 1999 incident rate increased each year from 1999
forward. forward.
GANG RELATED CRIMINAL INCIDENTS GANG RELATED CRIMINAL INCIDENTS
Rate Rate
Year Number Rate Change Year Number Rate Change
1998 105 0.27 1998 105 0.27

1999 136 0.34 +27.7% 1999 136 0.34 +27.7%
2000 151 0.38 +9.7% 2000 151 0.38 +9.7%
2001 273 0.67 +79.1% 2001 273 0.67 +79.1%
2002 377 0.92 +36.6% 2002 377 0.92 +36.6%
2003 521 1.26 +36.9% 2003 521 1.26 +36.9%
2004 632 1.51 +19.8% 2004 632 1.51 +19.8%
2005 752 1.77 +17.4% 2005 752 1.77 +17.4%
2006 994 2.30 +30.2% 2006 994 2.30 +30.2%
2007 1,304 2.96 +28.6% 2007 1,304 2.96 +28.6%
Notes: Unit of count – incidents. Incidents can encompass more than one victim, Notes: Unit of count – incidents. Incidents can encompass more than one victim,
offense or offender. offense or offender.
Sources: SCIBRS data, SLED; population estimates, ORS. Sources: SCIBRS data, SLED; population estimates, ORS.
10 10
Gang Incidents Gang Incidents
3.0 3.0
2.5 2.5
2.0 2.0
Rate per 10,000
Rate per 10,000

1.5 1.5
1.0 1.0
0.5 0.5
0.0 0.0
98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Year Year
11 11
Aggravated assaults were the most frequently Aggravated assaults were the most frequently
reported offense among gang incidents. reported offense among gang incidents.
GANG INCIDENTS GANG INCIDENTS

BY MOST SERIOUS OFFENSE BY MOST SERIOUS OFFENSE
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Offense Number Percent Offense Number Percent
Aggravated Assault 1,715 32.7% Aggravated Assault 1,715 32.7%

Burglary 49 0.9% Burglary 49 0.9%
Drug Laws 52 1.0% Drug Laws 52 1.0%
Intimidation 710 13.5% Intimidation 710 13.5%
Kidnapping 20 0.4% Kidnapping 20 0.4%
Larceny 49 0.9% Larceny 49 0.9%
Motor Vehicle Theft 10 0.2% Motor Vehicle Theft 10 0.2%
Murder 48 0.9% Murder 48 0.9%
Negligent Homicide 1 <0.1% Negligent Homicide 1 <0.1%
Other 26 0.5% Other 26 0.5%
Robbery 431 8.2% Robbery 431 8.2%
Sexual Violence 80 1.5% Sexual Violence 80 1.5%
Simple Assault 1,566 29.9% Simple Assault 1,566 29.9%
Vandalism 432 8.2% Vandalism 432 8.2%
Weapons Laws 56 1.1% Weapons Laws 56 1.1%
Total 5,245 100.0% Total 5,245 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – incidents. Incidents can encompass more than one victim, Notes: Unit of count – incidents. Incidents can encompass more than one victim,
offense or offender. The percent column does not total 100 due to rounding. offense or offender. The percent column does not total 100 due to rounding.
Source: SCIBRS, SLED. Source: SCIBRS, SLED.
12 12
Gang Incidents by Most Serious Offense Gang Incidents by Most Serious Offense
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Kidnapping 0.4% Kidnapping 0.4%
Other 0.5% Other 0.5%
Homicide 0.9% Homicide 0.9%
Drug Laws 1.0% Drug Laws 1.0%
Weapon Laws 1.1% Weapon Laws 1.1%
Sexual Violence 1.5% Sexual Violence 1.5%
Property Crimes 2.1% Property Crimes 2.1%
Robbery 8.2% Robbery 8.2%
Vandalism 8.2% Vandalism 8.2%
Intimidation 13.5% Intimidation 13.5%
Simple Assault 29.9% Simple Assault 29.9%
Aggravated Assault 32.7% Aggravated Assault 32.7%
13 13
Assaults, both aggravated and simple, Assaults, both aggravated and simple,
accounted for 73.1% of gang related violence accounted for 73.1% of gang related violence
from 1998 through 2007. There were 49 gang from 1998 through 2007. There were 49 gang
related homicides reported during the same related homicides reported during the same
time period. time period.
GANG VIOLENCE BY OFFENSE GANG VIOLENCE BY OFFENSE

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Aggravated Assault 2,561 40.1% Aggravated Assault 2,561 40.1%

Intimidation 888 13.9% Intimidation 888 13.9%
Kidnapping 75 1.2% Kidnapping 75 1.2%
Murder 48 0.8% Murder 48 0.8%
Negligent Homicide 1 <0.1% Negligent Homicide 1 <0.1%
Simple Assault 2,104 33.0% Simple Assault 2,104 33.0%
Total 6,380 100.0% Total 6,380 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. The 6,380 offenses listed above represent the gang Notes: Unit of count – victims. The 6,380 offenses listed above represent the gang
related violent offenses committed against 6,321 victims. related violent offenses committed against 6,321 victims.
14 14
Gang Violence by Offense Gang Violence by Offense
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Negligent Homicide 0.0% Negligent Homicide 0.0%
Murder 0.8% Murder 0.8%
Kidnapping 1.2% Kidnapping 1.2%
Intimidation 13.9% Intimidation 13.9%
Simple Assault 33.0% Simple Assault 33.0%
Aggravated Assault 40.1% Aggravated Assault 40.1%
15 15
The highest annual gang violence The highest annual gang violence
victimization rate was 3.04 in 2007. The gang victimization rate was 3.04 in 2007. The gang
violence rate increased 919.9% from 1998 to violence rate increased 919.9% from 1998 to
2007. 2007.
GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS
Rate Rate
Year Number Rate Change Year Number Rate Change
1998 117 0.30 1998 117 0.30

1999 163 0.41 +37.4% 1999 163 0.41 +37.4%
2000 206 0.51 +24.8% 2000 206 0.51 +24.8%
2001 360 0.89 +73.1% 2001 360 0.89 +73.1%
2002 477 1.16 +31.0% 2002 477 1.16 +31.0%
2003 661 1.59 +37.2% 2003 661 1.59 +37.2%
2004 791 1.88 +18.2% 2004 791 1.88 +18.2%
2005 1,121 2.63 +39.8% 2005 1,121 2.63 +39.8%
2006 1,083 2.51 -4.9% 2006 1,083 2.51 -4.9%
2007 1,342 3.04 +21.5% 2007 1,342 3.04 +21.5%
Note: Unit of count – victims. Note: Unit of count – victims.

Sources: SCIBRS, SLED; population estimates, ORS. Sources: SCIBRS, SLED; population estimates, ORS.
16 16
Gang Violence Victimization Gang Violence Victimization
3.5 3.5
3.0 3.0
2.5 2.5
2.0 2.0
Rate per 10,000
Rate per 10,000

1.5 1.5
1.0 1.0
0.5 0.5
0.0 0.0
98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Year Year
17 17
From 1998 to 2007, 0.49% of violent crime was From 1998 to 2007, 0.49% of violent crime was
gang related. The percent of gang related gang related. The percent of gang related
violent crime increased from 0.09% in 1998 to violent crime increased from 0.09% in 1998 to
0.99% in 2007. 0.99% in 2007.
GANG VIOLENCE GANG VIOLENCE

AS PART OF TOTAL VIOLENT CRIME AS PART OF TOTAL VIOLENT CRIME
Percent of Percent of
Year Number Rate Violence Year Number Rate Violence
1998 117 0.30 0.09% 1998 117 0.30 0.09%

1999 163 0.41 0.13% 1999 163 0.41 0.13%
2000 206 0.51 0.16% 2000 206 0.51 0.16%
2001 360 0.89 0.31% 2001 360 0.89 0.31%
2002 477 1.16 0.45% 2002 477 1.16 0.45%
2003 661 1.59 0.50% 2003 661 1.59 0.50%
2004 791 1.88 0.60% 2004 791 1.88 0.60%
2005 1,121 2.63 0.72% 2005 1,121 2.63 0.72%
2006 1,083 2.51 0.82% 2006 1,083 2.51 0.82%
2007 1,342 3.04 0.99% 2007 1,342 3.04 0.99%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. Percent of violence refers to the percent that gang Notes: Unit of count – victims. Percent of violence refers to the percent that gang
related violent crime represents of all violent crime. related violent crime represents of all violent crime.
Sources: SCIBRS data, SLED; population estimates, ORS. Sources: SCIBRS data, SLED; population estimates, ORS.
18 18
Gang Violence as Part of Total Violence Gang Violence as Part of Total Violence
1.0% 1.0%
0.8% 0.8%
Percent of Total Violence
Percent of Total Violence

0.6% 0.6%
0.4% 0.4%
0.2% 0.2%
0.0% 0.0%
98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Year Year
19 19
More gang violence was reported in October More gang violence was reported in October
than any other month. The least amount of than any other month. The least amount of
gang violence was reported in February. gang violence was reported in February.
GANG VIOLENCE BY MONTH GANG VIOLENCE BY MONTH

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Month Number Percent Month Number Percent
January 476 7.5% January 476 7.5%

February 401 6.3% February 401 6.3%
March 612 9.7% March 612 9.7%
April 551 8.7% April 551 8.7%
May 522 8.3% May 522 8.3%
June 477 7.5% June 477 7.5%
July 510 8.1% July 510 8.1%
August 521 8.2% August 521 8.2%
September 626 9.9% September 626 9.9%
October 654 10.3% October 654 10.3%
November 499 7.9% November 499 7.9%
December 472 7.5% December 472 7.5%
Total 6,321 100.0% Total 6,321 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. The percent column does not add up to 100 due to Notes: Unit of count – victims. The percent column does not add up to 100 due to
rounding. rounding.
20 20
Gang Violence by Month Gang Violence by Month
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
12% 12%
10% 10%
8% 8%
Percent of Gang Violence

6% 6%
4% 4%
2% 2%
0% 0%
J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D
Month Month
21 21
More gang violence was reported on Saturday More gang violence was reported on Saturday
than any other day of the week. The least than any other day of the week. The least
amount of gang violence was reported on amount of gang violence was reported on
Thursday. Thursday.
GANG VIOLENCE BY DAY OF THE WEEK GANG VIOLENCE BY DAY OF THE WEEK
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Day of the Week Number Percent Day of the Week Number Percent
Sunday 867 13.7% Sunday 867 13.7%

Monday 879 13.9% Monday 879 13.9%
Tuesday 924 14.6% Tuesday 924 14.6%
Wednesday 920 14.6% Wednesday 920 14.6%
Thursday 815 12.9% Thursday 815 12.9%
Friday 935 14.8% Friday 935 14.8%
Saturday 981 15.5% Saturday 981 15.5%
Total 6,321 100.0% Total 6,321 100.0%

22 22
Gang Violence by Day of the Week Gang Violence by Day of the Week
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
16% 16%
14% 14%
12% 12%
10% 10%

8% 8%
6% 6%
4% 4%
2% 2%
0% 0%
Sun Mon Tu Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun Mon Tu Wed Thur Fri Sat
Day of the Week Day of the Week
23 23
Gang violence was reported most often Gang violence was reported most often
between 8PM and 9PM. between 8PM and 9PM.
GANG VIOLENCE BY TIME OF DAY GANG VIOLENCE BY TIME OF DAY

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Time of Day Number Percent Time of Day Number Percent
Midnight 353 5.6% Midnight 353 5.6%

1AM 276 4.4% 1AM 276 4.4%
2AM 199 3.2% 2AM 199 3.2%
3AM 153 2.4% 3AM 153 2.4%
4AM 100 1.6% 4AM 100 1.6%
5AM 29 0.5% 5AM 29 0.5%
6AM 51 0.8% 6AM 51 0.8%
7AM 166 2.6% 7AM 166 2.6%
8AM 182 2.9% 8AM 182 2.9%
9AM 86 1.4% 9AM 86 1.4%
10AM 137 2.2% 10AM 137 2.2%
11AM 141 2.2% 11AM 141 2.2%
Noon 227 3.6% Noon 227 3.6%
1PM 220 3.5% 1PM 220 3.5%
2PM 230 3.7% 2PM 230 3.7%
3PM 451 7.2% 3PM 451 7.2%
4PM 383 6.1% 4PM 383 6.1%
5PM 373 5.9% 5PM 373 5.9%
6PM 403 6.4% 6PM 403 6.4%
7PM 373 5.9% 7PM 373 5.9%
8PM 489 7.8% 8PM 489 7.8%
9PM 432 6.9% 9PM 432 6.9%
10PM 431 6.9% 10PM 431 6.9%
11PM 398 6.3% 11PM 398 6.3%
Total 6,283 100.0% Total 6,283 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. Time represents the reported time of victimization Notes: Unit of count – victims. Time represents the reported time of victimization
by hour alone; e.g., 7AM represents all victimizations that occurred from 7:00 AM by hour alone; e.g., 7AM represents all victimizations that occurred from 7:00 AM
through 7:59 AM. A total of 38 cases were missing time of day data. through 7:59 AM. A total of 38 cases were missing time of day data.
24 24
Gang Violence by Time of Day Gang Violence by Time of Day
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
8% 8%
7% 7%
6% 6%
5% 5%

4% 4%
3% 3%
2% 2%
1% 1%
0% 0%
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Hour - Military Time Hour - Military Time
25 25
Gang violence increased after 3PM and Gang violence increased after 3PM and
continued at approximately the same level continued at approximately the same level
until after midnight. until after midnight.
GANG VIOLENCE BY TIME OF DAY GANG VIOLENCE BY TIME OF DAY

THREE HOUR INTERVALS THREE HOUR INTERVALS
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Midnight - 2:59 828 13.2% Midnight - 2:59 828 13.2%

3AM - 5:59 282 4.5% 3AM - 5:59 282 4.5%
6AM - 8:59 399 6.4% 6AM - 8:59 399 6.4%
9AM - 11:59 364 5.8% 9AM - 11:59 364 5.8%
Noon - 2:59 677 10.8% Noon - 2:59 677 10.8%
3PM - 5:59 1,207 19.2% 3PM - 5:59 1,207 19.2%
6PM - 8:59 1,265 20.1% 6PM - 8:59 1,265 20.1%
9PM - 11:59 1,261 20.1% 9PM - 11:59 1,261 20.1%
Total 6,283 100.0% Total 6,283 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. Time represents the reported time of victimization Notes: Unit of count – victims. Time represents the reported time of victimization
by hour alone; e.g., 7AM represents all victimizations that occurred from 7:00 AM by hour alone; e.g., 7AM represents all victimizations that occurred from 7:00 AM
through 7:59 AM. A total of 38 cases did not have time of day data. The percent through 7:59 AM. A total of 38 cases did not have time of day data. The percent
column does not add up to 100 due to rounding. column does not add up to 100 due to rounding.
26 26
Gang Violence by Time of Day Gang Violence by Time of Day
Three Hour Intervals Three Hour Intervals
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Midnight - 2:59 13.2% Midnight - 2:59 13.2%
3AM - 5:59 4.5% 3AM - 5:59 4.5%
6AM - 8:59 6.4% 6AM - 8:59 6.4%
9AM - 11:59 5.8% 9AM - 11:59 5.8%
Noon - 2:59 10.8% Noon - 2:59 10.8%
3PM - 5:59 19.2% 3PM - 5:59 19.2%
6PM - 8:59 20.1% 6PM - 8:59 20.1%
9pm - 11:59 20.1% 9pm - 11:59 20.1%
27 27
Richland County reported the most victims of Richland County reported the most victims of
gang violence among the counties in 2007. gang violence among the counties in 2007.
GANG VIOLENCE BY COUNTY GANG VIOLENCE BY COUNTY

2007 2007
County Number Rate County Number Rate County Number Rate County Number Rate
Abbeville 4 1.6 Greenwood 5 0.7 Abbeville 4 1.6 Greenwood 5 0.7

Aiken 23 1.5 Hampton 7 3.3 Aiken 23 1.5 Hampton 7 3.3
Allendale 2 1.9 Horry 33 1.3 Allendale 2 1.9 Horry 33 1.3
Anderson 61 3.4 Jasper 4 1.8 Anderson 61 3.4 Jasper 4 1.8
Bamberg 5 3.2 Kershaw 8 1.4 Bamberg 5 3.2 Kershaw 8 1.4
Barnwell 17 7.4 Lancaster 34 4.6 Barnwell 17 7.4 Lancaster 34 4.6
Beaufort 34 2.3 Laurens 46 6.6 Beaufort 34 2.3 Laurens 46 6.6
Berkeley 38 2.3 Lee 6 3.0 Berkeley 38 2.3 Lee 6 3.0
Calhoun 2 1.4 Lexington 48 2.0 Calhoun 2 1.4 Lexington 48 2.0
Charleston 90 2.6 McCormick 1 1.0 Charleston 90 2.6 McCormick 1 1.0
Cherokee 8 1.5 Marion 32 9.4 Cherokee 8 1.5 Marion 32 9.4
Chester 62 19.0 Marlboro 42 14.5 Chester 62 19.0 Marlboro 42 14.5
Chesterfield 18 4.2 Newberry 3 0.8 Chesterfield 18 4.2 Newberry 3 0.8
Clarendon 13 4.0 Oconee 1 0.1 Clarendon 13 4.0 Oconee 1 0.1
Colleton 98 25.2 Orangeburg 23 2.5 Colleton 98 25.2 Orangeburg 23 2.5
Darlington 107 16.0 Pickens 5 0.4 Darlington 107 16.0 Pickens 5 0.4
Dillon 25 8.2 Richland 129 3.6 Dillon 25 8.2 Richland 129 3.6
Dorchester 33 2.7 Saluda 9 4.8 Dorchester 33 2.7 Saluda 9 4.8
Edgefield 5 2.0 Spartanburg 31 1.1 Edgefield 5 2.0 Spartanburg 31 1.1
Fairfield 19 8.2 Sumter 4 0.4 Fairfield 19 8.2 Sumter 4 0.4
Florence 113 8.6 Union 0 0.0 Florence 113 8.6 Union 0 0.0
Georgetown 17 2.8 Williamsburg 3 0.8 Georgetown 17 2.8 Williamsburg 3 0.8
Greenville 44 1.0 York 30 1.4 Greenville 44 1.0 York 30 1.4

28 28
Colleton County reported the highest gang Colleton County reported the highest gang
violence victimization rate among the counties violence victimization rate among the counties
in 2007. in 2007.
GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMIZATION RATES GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMIZATION RATES

THE TEN HIGHEST COUNTIES THE TEN HIGHEST COUNTIES
2007 2007
County Number Rate County Number Rate
Colleton 98 25.2 Colleton 98 25.2

Chester 62 19.0 Chester 62 19.0
Darlington 107 16.0 Darlington 107 16.0
Marlboro 42 14.5 Marlboro 42 14.5
Marion 32 9.4 Marion 32 9.4
Florence 113 8.6 Florence 113 8.6
Fairfield 19 8.2 Fairfield 19 8.2
Dillon 25 8.2 Dillon 25 8.2
Barnwell 17 7.4 Barnwell 17 7.4
Laurens 46 6.6 Laurens 46 6.6

29 29
Gang violence was reported most frequently at Gang violence was reported most frequently at
private residences followed by highways, roads private residences followed by highways, roads
and streets. and streets.
GANG VIOLENCE BY LOCATION GANG VIOLENCE BY LOCATION

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Location Number Percent Location Number Percent
Bar/Night Club 253 4.0% Bar/Night Club 253 4.0%

Commercial Property 223 3.5% Commercial Property 223 3.5%
Convenience Store/ Convenience Store/
Gas Station 155 2.5% Gas Station 155 2.5%
Field/Woods 92 1.5% Field/Woods 92 1.5%
Highways/Roads/Streets 1,573 24.9% Highways/Roads/Streets 1,573 24.9%
Hotel/Motel 54 0.9% Hotel/Motel 54 0.9%
Other 312 4.9% Other 312 4.9%
Parking Lot 358 5.7% Parking Lot 358 5.7%
Residence 2,382 37.7% Residence 2,382 37.7%
Restaurant 104 1.6% Restaurant 104 1.6%
School K-12 815 12.9% School K-12 815 12.9%
Total 6,321 100.0% Total 6,321 100.0%

30 30
Gang Violence by Location Gang Violence by Location
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Hotel/Motel 0.9% Hotel/Motel 0.9%
Field/Woods 1.5% Field/Woods 1.5%
Restaurant 1.6% Restaurant 1.6%
Convenience Store/Gas Convenience Store/Gas

2.5% 2.5%
Station Station
Commercial Property 3.5% Commercial Property 3.5%
Bar/Night Club 4.0% Bar/Night Club 4.0%
Parking Lot 5.7% Parking Lot 5.7%
School K-12 12.9% School K-12 12.9%
Highways/Roads 24.9% Highways/Roads 24.9%
Residence 37.7% Residence 37.7%
31 31
Hands, feet and fists accounted for 60.1% of Hands, feet and fists accounted for 60.1% of
weapons reported in gang violence. Firearms weapons reported in gang violence. Firearms
accounted for 23.2% of weapon involvement. accounted for 23.2% of weapon involvement.
WEAPON INVOLVEMENT IN GANG VIOLENCE WEAPON INVOLVEMENT IN GANG VIOLENCE

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Weapon Number Percent Weapon Number Percent
Blunt Object 254 6.6% Blunt Object 254 6.6%

Firearms 896 23.2% Firearms 896 23.2%
Handgun 631 16.4% Handgun 631 16.4%
Other Firearm 27 0.7% Other Firearm 27 0.7%
Rifle 24 0.6% Rifle 24 0.6%
Shotgun 53 1.4% Shotgun 53 1.4%
Unknown Firearm 161 4.2% Unknown Firearm 161 4.2%
Hands, feet, fists 2,320 60.1% Hands, feet, fists 2,320 60.1%
Knife 165 4.3% Knife 165 4.3%
Motor Vehicle 27 0.7% Motor Vehicle 27 0.7%
Other 197 5.1% Other 197 5.1%
Total 3,859 100.0% Total 3,859 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – incidents. SCIBRS allows for up to three weapon types to be Notes: Unit of count – incidents. SCIBRS allows for up to three weapon types to be
recorded per incident. Incidents for which a weapon was not recorded or for which recorded per incident. Incidents for which a weapon was not recorded or for which
the weapon was unknown were not included. Handguns, other firearms, rifles, the weapon was unknown were not included. Handguns, other firearms, rifles,
shotguns and unknown firearms are subcategories of the comprehensive firearms shotguns and unknown firearms are subcategories of the comprehensive firearms
category; consequently the total of the percent column exceeds 100. category; consequently the total of the percent column exceeds 100.
32 32
Weapon Involvement in Gang Violence Weapon Involvement in Gang Violence
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Motor Vehicle 0.7% Motor Vehicle 0.7%
Knife 4.3% Knife 4.3%
Blunt Object 6.6% Blunt Object 6.6%
Firearms 23.2% Firearms 23.2%
Hands, feet, fists 60.1% Hands, feet, fists 60.1%
33 33
The mean average age for gang violence The mean average age for gang violence
victims was 23.6 years. The highest gang victims was 23.6 years. The highest gang
related violent victimization rate was reported related violent victimization rate was reported
among 11 to 16 year olds, followed by 17 to 21 among 11 to 16 year olds, followed by 17 to 21
year olds. year olds.
GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS BY AGE GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS BY AGE

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Age Group Number Percent Rate Age Group Number Percent Rate
10 & younger 149 2.4% 0.15 10 & younger 149 2.4% 0.15
11 - 16 1,998 32.5% 3.42 11 - 16 1,998 32.5% 3.42
17 - 21 1,618 26.3% 3.28 17 - 21 1,618 26.3% 3.28
22 - 24 407 6.6% 1.36 22 - 24 407 6.6% 1.36
25 - 34 860 14.0% 0.88 25 - 34 860 14.0% 0.88
35 - 44 627 10.2% 0.61 35 - 44 627 10.2% 0.61
45 - 54 334 5.4% 0.38 45 - 54 334 5.4% 0.38
55 - 65 115 1.9% 0.18 55 - 65 115 1.9% 0.18
65 & older 45 0.7% 0.05 65 & older 45 0.7% 0.05
Total 6,150 100.0% 1.53 Total 6,150 100.0% 1.53
Notes: Unit of count – victims. A total of 171 victims were missing age data or had Notes: Unit of count – victims. A total of 171 victims were missing age data or had
age entered as a range that did not allow inclusion. The total rate is based on all age entered as a range that did not allow inclusion. The total rate is based on all
gang violence victims. gang violence victims.
34 34
Gang Violence Victims by Age Gang Violence Victims by Age
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
10 & younger 0.14 10 & younger 0.14
11 - 16 3.42 11 - 16 3.42
17 - 21 3.28 17 - 21 3.28
22 - 24 1.36 22 - 24 1.36
Age Group
Age Group
25 - 34 0.88 25 - 34 0.88
35 - 44 0.61 35 - 44 0.61
45 - 54 0.38 45 - 54 0.38
55 - 65 0.18 55 - 65 0.18
65 & older 0.05 65 & older 0.05
Rate per 10,000 Rate per 10,000
35 35
Among victims of gang violence younger than Among victims of gang violence younger than
25 years of age, the highest gang related 25 years of age, the highest gang related
violent victimization rate was reported among violent victimization rate was reported among
15 to 16 year olds. 15 to 16 year olds.
JUVENILE AND YOUNG ADULT VICTIMS OF JUVENILE AND YOUNG ADULT VICTIMS OF
GANG VIOLENCE BY AGE GANG VIOLENCE BY AGE
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
10 & younger 149 2.4% 0.15 10 & younger 149 2.4% 0.15
11 - 12 194 3.2% 1.00 11 - 12 194 3.2% 1.00
13 - 14 754 12.3% 3.91 13 - 14 754 12.3% 3.91
15 - 16 1,039 16.9% 5.38 15 - 16 1,039 16.9% 5.38
17 - 19 1,160 18.9% 3.92 17 - 19 1,160 18.9% 3.92
20 - 21 455 7.4% 2.30 20 - 21 455 7.4% 2.30
22 - 24 407 6.6% 1.36 22 - 24 407 6.6% 1.36
Total 4,155 67.6% 1.75 Total 4,155 67.6% 1.75
Notes: Unit of count – victims. A total of 14 juvenile and young adult victims had Notes: Unit of count – victims. A total of 14 juvenile and young adult victims had
age entered as a range that did not allow inclusion in this table. The total rate is age entered as a range that did not allow inclusion in this table. The total rate is
based on all juvenile and young adult victims. Percent represents the percent each based on all juvenile and young adult victims. Percent represents the percent each
age category comprises of all gang violence victims with usable age data. The age category comprises of all gang violence victims with usable age data. The
percent column does not total 67.6% due to rounding. percent column does not total 67.6% due to rounding.
36 36
Juvenile and Young Adult Victims Juvenile and Young Adult Victims
of Gang Violence by Age of Gang Violence by Age
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
11 -12 1.00 11 -12 1.00
13 - 14 3.91 13 - 14 3.91
Age Group
Age Group
15 - 16 5.38 15 - 16 5.38
17 - 19 3.92 17 - 19 3.92
20 - 21 2.30 20 - 21 2.30
22 - 24 1.36 22 - 24 1.36
37 37
The gang related violence victimization rate The gang related violence victimization rate
from 1998 through 2007 among males was 2.2 from 1998 through 2007 among males was 2.2
compared to 0.9 for females. compared to 0.9 for females.
GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS BY SEX GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS BY SEX

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Sex Number Percent Rate Sex Number Percent Rate
Female 1,937 30.8% 0.9 Female 1,937 30.8% 0.9

Male 4,351 69.2% 2.2 Male 4,351 69.2% 2.2
Total 6,288 100.0% 1.5 Total 6,288 100.0% 1.5
Notes: Unit of count – victims. Sex was unknown for 33 victims. The total rate is Notes: Unit of count – victims. Sex was unknown for 33 victims. The total rate is
based on all gang violence victims. based on all gang violence victims.
38 38
Gang Violence Victims by Sex Gang Violence Victims by Sex
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
2.2 2.2
Rate per 10,000
Rate per 10,000

0.9 0.9
Female Male Female Male
39 39
Victims of gang related violence were most Victims of gang related violence were most
often Black. often Black.
GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS BY RACE GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS BY RACE

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Race Number Percent Race Number Percent
Asian 28 0.4% Asian 28 0.4%

Black 4,335 69.1% Black 4,335 69.1%
Native American 11 0.2% Native American 11 0.2%
White 1,895 30.2% White 1,895 30.2%
Total 6,269 100.0% Total 6,269 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. Race was unknown for 52 victims. The percent Notes: Unit of count – victims. Race was unknown for 52 victims. The percent
column does not total 100 due to rounding column does not total 100 due to rounding.
40 40
Gang Violence Victims by Race Gang Violence Victims by Race
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Native American 0.2% Native American 0.2%
Asian 0.4% Asian 0.4%
White 30.2% White 30.2%
Black 69.1% Black 69.1%
41 41
The gang related violent victimization rate The gang related violent victimization rate
among Non-Whites was 3.3, compared to 0.7 among Non-Whites was 3.3, compared to 0.7
for Whites. for Whites.

BY RACIAL GROUP BY RACIAL GROUP
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Racial Racial
Group Number Percent Rate Group Number Percent Rate
Non-White 4,374 69.8% 3.3 Non-White 4,374 69.8% 3.3

White 1,895 30.2% 0.7 White 1,895 30.2% 0.7
Total 6,269 100.0% 1.5 Total 6,269 100.0% 1.5
Notes: Unit of count – victims. The Non-White racial group consists of Asian, Notes: Unit of count – victims. The Non-White racial group consists of Asian,
Black and Native American. Race was unknown for 52 victims. The total rate is Black and Native American. Race was unknown for 52 victims. The total rate is
based on all gang violence victims. based on all gang violence victims.
42 42
Gang Violence Victims by Racial Group Gang Violence Victims by Racial Group
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
3.3 3.3
Rate per 10,000
Rate per 10,000

0.7 0.7
White Non-White White Non-White
43 43
The gang related violent victimization rate The gang related violent victimization rate
among Non-Hispanics was 2.5 compared to 2.4 among Non-Hispanics was 2.5 compared to 2.4
for Hispanics. for Hispanics.
GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS BY ETHNICITY GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS BY ETHNICITY

2004 - 2007 2004 - 2007
Ethnicity Number Percent Rate Ethnicity Number Percent Rate
Hispanic 139 3.3% 2.4 Hispanic 139 3.3% 2.4

Non-Hispanic 4,136 96.7% 2.5 Non-Hispanic 4,136 96.7% 2.5
Total 4,275 100.0% 2.5 Total 4,275 100.0% 2.5
Notes: Unit of count – victims. SCIBRS measures ethnicity separately from race. Notes: Unit of count – victims. SCIBRS measures ethnicity separately from race.
The 2004 to 2007 time period was used for this table because reliable population The 2004 to 2007 time period was used for this table because reliable population
estimates for ethnicity were available. There were 62 victims for whom ethnicity estimates for ethnicity were available. There were 62 victims for whom ethnicity
was missing or unknown. The total rate is based on all gang violence victims from was missing or unknown. The total rate is based on all gang violence victims from
2004 through 2007. 2004 through 2007.
44 44
Gang Violence Victims by Ethnicity Gang Violence Victims by Ethnicity
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
2.5 2.5
2.4 2.4
Rate per 10,000
Rate per 10,000

Hispanic Non-Hispanic Hispanic Non-Hispanic
45 45
Among victims of gang related violence, 69.6% Among victims of gang related violence, 69.6%
were known to, but not related or romantically were known to, but not related or romantically
involved with, the offender. Strangers involved with, the offender. Strangers
accounted for 24.8% of gang violence. accounted for 24.8% of gang violence.

BY VICTIM TO OFFENDER RELATIONSHIP BY VICTIM TO OFFENDER RELATIONSHIP
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Victim was: Number Percent Victim was: Number Percent
Family 348 2.7% Family 348 2.7%

Known 8,895 69.6% Known 8,895 69.6%
Marital 189 1.5% Marital 189 1.5%
Romantic 182 1.4% Romantic 182 1.4%
Stranger 3,174 24.8% Stranger 3,174 24.8%
Total 12,788 100.0% Total 12,788 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count victims. SCIBRS records up to ten victim to offender Notes: Unit of count victims. SCIBRS records up to ten victim to offender
relationships per victim. Situations in which more than one victim and/or more than relationships per victim. Situations in which more than one victim and/or more than
one offender are involved results in a multiplicative effect for the victim to offender one offender are involved results in a multiplicative effect for the victim to offender
relationships. Unknown victim to offender relationships were excluded. relationships. Unknown victim to offender relationships were excluded.
46 46
Gang Violence Gang Violence
Victim to Offender Relationships Victim to Offender Relationships
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Romantic 1.4% Romantic 1.4%
Marital 1.5% Marital 1.5%
Family 2.7% Family 2.7%
Stranger 24.8% Stranger 24.8%
Known 69.6% Known 69.6%
47 47
The most often reported victim to offender The most often reported victim to offender
relationship when the victim knew but was not relationship when the victim knew but was not
related or romantically linked to the offender, related or romantically linked to the offender,
was that of an acquaintance. was that of an acquaintance.

VICTIM WAS KNOWN VICTIM WAS KNOWN
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Acquaintance 7,457 58.3% Acquaintance 7,457 58.3%

Babysittee/ Babysittee/
Child of boy or girlfriend 5 <0.1% Child of boy or girlfriend 5 <0.1%
Employee/Employer 11 0.1% Employee/Employer 11 0.1%
Friend 171 1.3% Friend 171 1.3%
Neighbor 102 0.8% Neighbor 102 0.8%
Otherwise Known 1,149 9.0% Otherwise Known 1,149 9.0%
Total 8,895 69.6% Total 8,895 69.6%
relationships. Unknown victim to offender relationships were excluded. The relationships. Unknown victim to offender relationships were excluded. The
category babysittee refers to a victim who was being cared for. The percent column category babysittee refers to a victim who was being cared for. The percent column
represents the percent that each victim/offender relationship comprises of all gang represents the percent that each victim/offender relationship comprises of all gang
violence victim/offender relationships. The percent column does not total 69.6 due violence victim/offender relationships. The percent column does not total 69.6 due
to rounding. to rounding.
48 48
Gang Violence Gang Violence
Victim Was Known Victim Was Known
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Babysitee/Child of Babysitee/Child of
0.0% 0.0%
boy/girlfriend boy/girlfriend
Employee/Employer 0.1% Employee/Employer 0.1%
Neighbor 0.8% Neighbor 0.8%
Friend 1.3% Friend 1.3%
Otherwise Known 9.0% Otherwise Known 9.0%
Acquaintance 58.3% Acquaintance 58.3%
49 49
Substance use by the victim was reported in Substance use by the victim was reported in
5.5% of gang related incidents. 5.5% of gang related incidents.
VICTIM SUBSTANCE USE IN GANG CRIMES VICTIM SUBSTANCE USE IN GANG CRIMES
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Substance Number Percent Substance Number Percent
Alcohol Only 251 4.8% Alcohol Only 251 4.8%

Alcohol & Drugs 11 0.2% Alcohol & Drugs 11 0.2%
Drugs Only 25 0.5% Drugs Only 25 0.5%
No Substance Reported 4,958 94.6% No Substance Reported 4,958 94.6%
Total 5,245 100.0% Total 5,245 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – incidents. This indicates the number of incidents in which Notes: Unit of count – incidents. This indicates the number of incidents in which
substance use by a victim was reported, not the number of victims using a substance. substance use by a victim was reported, not the number of victims using a substance.
The percent column does not add up to 100 due to rounding. The percent column does not add up to 100 due to rounding.
50 50
Victim Substance Use in Gang Incidents Victim Substance Use in Gang Incidents
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Alcohol & Drugs 0.2% Alcohol & Drugs 0.2%
Drugs Only 0.5% Drugs Only 0.5%
Alcohol Only 4.8% Alcohol Only 4.8%
No Substance Reported 94.6% No Substance Reported 94.6%
51 51
The mean average age for violent gang The mean average age for violent gang
offenders was 19.5 years. The highest gang offenders was 19.5 years. The highest gang
related violence offender rate was reported related violence offender rate was reported
VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS BY AGE VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS BY AGE

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
10 & younger 107 1.4% 0.11 10 & younger 107 1.4% 0.11
11 - 16 3,222 41.3% 5.51 11 - 16 3,222 41.3% 5.51
17 - 21 2,754 35.3% 5.58 17 - 21 2,754 35.3% 5.58
22 - 24 492 6.3% 1.65 22 - 24 492 6.3% 1.65
25 - 34 714 9.2% 0.73 25 - 34 714 9.2% 0.73
35 - 44 334 4.3% 0.33 35 - 44 334 4.3% 0.33
45 - 54 138 1.8% 0.16 45 - 54 138 1.8% 0.16
55 - 64 26 0.3% 0.04 55 - 64 26 0.3% 0.04
65 & older 14 0.2% 0.02 65 & older 14 0.2% 0.02
Total 7,801 100.0% 2.43 Total 7,801 100.0% 2.43
Notes: Unit of count – offenders. A total of 2,264 offenders were missing age data Notes: Unit of count – offenders. A total of 2,264 offenders were missing age data
or had age entered as a range that did not allow inclusion. The percent column does or had age entered as a range that did not allow inclusion. The percent column does
not total 100 due to rounding. The total rate is based on all gang violence offenders. not total 100 due to rounding. The total rate is based on all gang violence offenders.
52 52
Violent Gang Offenders by Age Violent Gang Offenders by Age
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
11 - 16 5.51 11 - 16 5.51
17 - 21 5.58 17 - 21 5.58
22 - 24 1.65 22 - 24 1.65
Age Group
Age Group
25 - 34 0.73 25 - 34 0.73
35 - 44 0.33 35 - 44 0.33
45 - 54 0.16 45 - 54 0.16
55 - 64 0.04 55 - 64 0.04
65 & older 0.02 65 & older 0.02
53 53
Among violent gang offenders younger than Among violent gang offenders younger than
25, the highest offender rate was reported 25, the highest offender rate was reported
JUVENILE AND YOUNG ADULT JUVENILE AND YOUNG ADULT

VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS BY AGE VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS BY AGE
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
10 & younger 107 1.4% 0.11 10 & younger 107 1.4% 0.11
11 - 12 263 3.4% 1.36 11 - 12 263 3.4% 1.36
13 - 14 1,013 13.0% 5.25 13 - 14 1,013 13.0% 5.25
15 - 16 1,785 22.9% 9.25 15 - 16 1,785 22.9% 9.25
17 - 19 1,992 25.5% 6.73 17 - 19 1,992 25.5% 6.73
20 - 21 613 7.9% 3.11 20 - 21 613 7.9% 3.11
22 - 24 492 6.3% 1.65 22 - 24 492 6.3% 1.65
Total 6,265 80.3% 2.75 Total 6,265 80.3% 2.75
Notes: Unit of count – offenders. Total rate represents the gang offender rate for all Notes: Unit of count – offenders. Total rate represents the gang offender rate for all
gang offenders younger than 25. A total of 310 juveniles and young adults had age gang offenders younger than 25. A total of 310 juveniles and young adults had age
ranges entered that did not allow inclusion in the above table, as a result the total of ranges entered that did not allow inclusion in the above table, as a result the total of
the percent column does not equal the sum of the percents for juvenile and young the percent column does not equal the sum of the percents for juvenile and young
adults in the previous table. Percent represents the percent each age category adults in the previous table. Percent represents the percent each age category
comprises of all gang violence offenders with usable age data. The percent column comprises of all gang violence offenders with usable age data. The percent column
does not total 80.3 due to rounding. does not total 80.3 due to rounding.
54 54
Juvenile and Young Adult Juvenile and Young Adult
Violent Gang Offenders by Age Violent Gang Offenders by Age
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
11 -12 1.36 11 -12 1.36
13 - 14 5.25 13 - 14 5.25
Age Group
Age Group
15 - 16 9.25 15 - 16 9.25
17 - 19 6.73 17 - 19 6.73
20 - 21 3.11 20 - 21 3.11
22 - 24 1.65 22 - 24 1.65
55 55
The violent gang offender rate for males was The violent gang offender rate for males was
4.1 per compared to 0.7 for females. 4.1 per compared to 0.7 for females.
VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS BY SEX VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS BY SEX

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Sex Number Percent Rate Sex Number Percent Rate
Female 1,456 15.1% 0.7 Female 1,456 15.1% 0.7

Male 8,205 84.9% 4.1 Male 8,205 84.9% 4.1
Total 9,661 100.0% 2.4 Total 9,661 100.0% 2.4
Notes: Unit of count – offenders. There were 404 offenders for whom sex was Notes: Unit of count – offenders. There were 404 offenders for whom sex was
missing or unknown. The total rate is based on all gang violence offenders. missing or unknown. The total rate is based on all gang violence offenders.
56 56
Violent Gang Offenders by Sex Violent Gang Offenders by Sex
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
4.1 4.1
Rate per 10,000
Rate per 10,000

0.7 0.7
57 57
Violent gang offenders were most often Violent gang offenders were most often
reported to be Black. reported to be Black.
VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS BY RACE VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS BY RACE

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Asian 19 0.2% Asian 19 0.2%

Black 8,188 85.4% Black 8,188 85.4%
White 1,371 14.3% White 1,371 14.3%
Total 9,593 100.0% Total 9,593 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – offenders. There were 472 offenders for whom race was Notes: Unit of count – offenders. There were 472 offenders for whom race was
missing or unknown. The percent column does not total 100 due to rounding. missing or unknown. The percent column does not total 100 due to rounding.
58 58
Violent Gang Offenders by Race Violent Gang Offenders by Race
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
59 59
The violent gang offender rate for Non-Whites The violent gang offender rate for Non-Whites
was 6.3, the violent gang offender rate for was 6.3, the violent gang offender rate for
Whites was 0.5. Whites was 0.5.
VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS

BY RACIAL GROUP BY RACIAL GROUP
1998 – 2007 1998 – 2007
Racial Racial
Group Number Percent Rate Group Number Percent Rate
Non-White 8,222 85.7% 6.3 Non-White 8,222 85.7% 6.3

White 1,371 14.3% 0.5 White 1,371 14.3% 0.5
Total 9,593 100.0% 2.4 Total 9,593 100.0% 2.4
Notes: Unit of count – victims. The Non-White racial group consists of Asian, Notes: Unit of count – victims. The Non-White racial group consists of Asian,
Black and Native American. There were 472 offenders for whom race was missing Black and Native American. There were 472 offenders for whom race was missing
or unknown. The total rate is based on all gang violence offenders. or unknown. The total rate is based on all gang violence offenders.
60 60
Violent Gang Offenders Violent Gang Offenders
by Racial Group by Racial Group
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
6.3 6.3
Rate per 10,000
Rate per 10,000

0.5 0.5
White Non-White White Non-White
61 61
The violent gang offender rate among Non- The violent gang offender rate among Non-
Hispanics was 3.6 per compared to 2.1 for Hispanics was 3.6 per compared to 2.1 for
Hispanics. Hispanics.
VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS BY ETHNICITY VIOLENT GANG OFFENDERS BY ETHNICITY

2004 - 2007 2004 - 2007
Ethnicity Number Percent Rate Ethnicity Number Percent Rate
Hispanic 124 2.0% 2.1 Hispanic 124 2.0% 2.1

Non-Hispanic 5,935 98.0% 3.6 Non-Hispanic 5,935 98.0% 3.6
Total 6,059 100.0% 3.8 Total 6,059 100.0% 3.8
Notes: Unit of count – victims. SCIBRS measures ethnicity separate from race. Notes: Unit of count – victims. SCIBRS measures ethnicity separate from race.
The 2004 to 2007 time period was used for this table because reliable population The 2004 to 2007 time period was used for this table because reliable population
estimates for ethnicity were available. There were 555 offenders for whom ethnicity estimates for ethnicity were available. There were 555 offenders for whom ethnicity
was missing or unknown. The total offender rate was calculated using all offenders was missing or unknown. The total offender rate was calculated using all offenders
from 2004 through 2007. from 2004 through 2007.
62 62
Violent Gang Offenders by Ethnicity Violent Gang Offenders by Ethnicity
2004 - 2007 2004 - 2007
3.6 3.6
Rate per 10,000
Rate per 10,000

2.1 2.1
63 63
Substance use by the offender was reported in Substance use by the offender was reported in
7.1% of gang incidents. 7.1% of gang incidents.
OFFENDER SUBSTANCE USE IN GANG OFFENDER SUBSTANCE USE IN GANG

RELATED INCIDENTS RELATED INCIDENTS
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007

No Substance Reported 4,876 93.0% No Substance Reported 4,876 93.0%
Total 5,245 100.0% Total 5,245 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – incidents. This indicates the number of incidents in which Notes: Unit of count – incidents. This indicates the number of incidents in which
substance use by an offender was reported, not the number of offenders using a substance use by an offender was reported, not the number of offenders using a
substance. The percent column does not total 100 due to rounding. substance. The percent column does not total 100 due to rounding.
64 64
Offender Substance Use Offender Substance Use
in Gang Incidents in Gang Incidents
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Alcohol & Drugs 0.5% Alcohol & Drugs 0.5%
Drugs Only 1.4% Drugs Only 1.4%
Alcohol Only 5.2% Alcohol Only 5.2%
No Substance Reported 93.0% No Substance Reported 93.0%
65 65
66 66
Gang Related Murders Gang Related Murders
The following section examines gang related murders The following section examines gang related murders
from 1998 through 2007. SCIBRS is used as the source from 1998 through 2007. SCIBRS is used as the source
of information concerning gang related murders. of information concerning gang related murders.
Similar to the approach used in looking at gang related Similar to the approach used in looking at gang related
crime, indicators of gang involvement were used to crime, indicators of gang involvement were used to
identify gang related incidents and link them to victim identify gang related incidents and link them to victim
and offender records. and offender records.
Some differences regarding the nature and subsequent Some differences regarding the nature and subsequent
presentation of data from the section concerning gang presentation of data from the section concerning gang
related crime should be noted. From 1998 through related crime should be noted. From 1998 through
2007, a total of 48 gang related murder victims and 159 2007, a total of 48 gang related murder victims and 159
gang related murder offenders were reported in gang related murder offenders were reported in
SCIBRS. Because of these relatively small numbers, SCIBRS. Because of these relatively small numbers,
victimization and offender rates were not calculated. victimization and offender rates were not calculated.
Not only would the resulting rates be very small, but Not only would the resulting rates be very small, but
small changes in the actual number of gang related small changes in the actual number of gang related
murders would result in such large changes in the rates murders would result in such large changes in the rates
as to render them meaningless and possibly misleading. as to render them meaningless and possibly misleading.
Instead, the actual numbers and percentages were Instead, the actual numbers and percentages were
provided in order to provide the most meaningful provided in order to provide the most meaningful
measures of information available under these measures of information available under these
circumstances. circumstances.
67 67
Gang related murders have increased from Gang related murders have increased from
none reported in 1998 to 21 in 2007. The none reported in 1998 to 21 in 2007. The
percent of murders that were gang related percent of murders that were gang related
increased from 0.0% in 1998 to 5.92% in 2007. increased from 0.0% in 1998 to 5.92% in 2007.
GANG MURDERS GANG MURDERS
Percent of Percent of
Year Number Total Year Number Total
1998 0 0.00% 1998 0 0.00%

1999 2 0.70% 1999 2 0.70%
2000 1 0.34% 2000 1 0.34%
2001 2 0.63% 2001 2 0.63%
2002 1 0.33% 2002 1 0.33%
2003 5 1.66% 2003 5 1.66%
2004 4 1.37% 2004 4 1.37%
2005 5 1.59% 2005 5 1.59%
2006 7 1.93% 2006 7 1.93%
2007 21 5.92% 2007 21 5.92%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. Percent of total represents the percentage that gang Notes: Unit of count – victims. Percent of total represents the percentage that gang
murders represented of the total murders for that year. murders represented of the total murders for that year.
68 68
Gang Murders Gang Murders
25 25
20 20
15 15
Number of Victims
Number of Victims
10 10
5 5
0 0
98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Year Year
69 69
More gang related murders were reported in More gang related murders were reported in
August than any other month. August than any other month.
GANG MURDERS BY MONTH GANG MURDERS BY MONTH

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Month Number Percent Month Number Percent
January 4 8.3% January 4 8.3%

February 3 6.3% February 3 6.3%
March 1 2.1% March 1 2.1%
April 5 10.4% April 5 10.4%
May 4 8.3% May 4 8.3%
June 3 6.3% June 3 6.3%
July 1 2.1% July 1 2.1%
August 8 16.7% August 8 16.7%
September 5 10.4% September 5 10.4%
October 3 6.3% October 3 6.3%
November 4 8.3% November 4 8.3%
December 7 14.6% December 7 14.6%
Total 48 100.0% Total 48 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. The percent column does not total 100 due to Notes: Unit of count – victims. The percent column does not total 100 due to
rounding. rounding.
70 70
Gang Murders by Month Gang Murders by Month
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
9 9
8 8
7 7
6 6
Number of Victims
Number of Victims
5 5
4 4
3 3
2 2
1 1
0 0
J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D
Month Month
71 71
More gang related murders were reported on More gang related murders were reported on
Sunday than any other day of the week. Sunday than any other day of the week.
GANG MURDERS BY DAY OF THE WEEK GANG MURDERS BY DAY OF THE WEEK
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Day of the Week Number Percent Day of the Week Number Percent
Sunday 13 27.1% Sunday 13 27.1%

Monday 8 16.7% Monday 8 16.7%
Tuesday 8 16.7% Tuesday 8 16.7%
Wednesday 2 4.2% Wednesday 2 4.2%
Thursday 1 2.1% Thursday 1 2.1%
Friday 6 12.5% Friday 6 12.5%
Saturday 10 20.8% Saturday 10 20.8%
Total 48 100.0% Total 48 100.0%
rounding. rounding.
72 72
Gang Murders by Day of the Week Gang Murders by Day of the Week
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
14 14
12 12
10 10
Number of Victims
Number of Victims
8 8
6 6
4 4
2 2
0 0
Sun Mon Tu Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun Mon Tu Wed Thur Fri Sat
Day of the Week Day of the Week
73 73
Gang murders were reported most often Gang murders were reported most often
between midnight and 1AM. between midnight and 1AM.
GANG MURDERS BY TIME OF DAY GANG MURDERS BY TIME OF DAY

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Midnight 6 12.8% Midnight 6 12.8%

1AM 5 10.6% 1AM 5 10.6%
2AM 3 6.4% 2AM 3 6.4%
3AM 4 8.5% 3AM 4 8.5%
4AM 2 4.3% 4AM 2 4.3%
5AM 3 6.4% 5AM 3 6.4%
6AM 1 2.1% 6AM 1 2.1%
7AM 0 0.0% 7AM 0 0.0%
8AM 0 0.0% 8AM 0 0.0%
9AM 1 2.1% 9AM 1 2.1%
10AM 0 0.0% 10AM 0 0.0%
11AM 0 0.0% 11AM 0 0.0%
Noon 0 0.0% Noon 0 0.0%
1PM 2 4.3% 1PM 2 4.3%
2PM 0 0.0% 2PM 0 0.0%
3PM 1 2.1% 3PM 1 2.1%
4PM 1 2.1% 4PM 1 2.1%
5PM 3 6.4% 5PM 3 6.4%
6PM 2 4.3% 6PM 2 4.3%
7PM 1 2.1% 7PM 1 2.1%
8PM 3 6.4% 8PM 3 6.4%
9PM 3 6.4% 9PM 3 6.4%
10PM 2 4.3% 10PM 2 4.3%
11PM 4 8.5% 11PM 4 8.5%
Total 47 100.0% Total 47 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. Time represents the reported time of murder by Notes: Unit of count – victims. Time represents the reported time of murder by
hour alone; e.g., 7AM represents all murders that occurred from 7:00 AM through hour alone; e.g., 7AM represents all murders that occurred from 7:00 AM through
7:59 AM. One case was missing time of day data. The percent column does not 7:59 AM. One case was missing time of day data. The percent column does not
total to 100 due to rounding. total to 100 due to rounding.
74 74
Gang Murders by Time of Day Gang Murders by Time of Day
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
7 7
6 6
5 5
Number of Victims
Number of Victims
4 4
3 3
2 2
1 1
0 0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Hour - Military Time Hour - Military Time
75 75
Gang murders were reported most frequently Gang murders were reported most frequently
at private residences, followed by highways, at private residences, followed by highways,
roads and streets. roads and streets.
GANG MURDERS BY LOCATION GANG MURDERS BY LOCATION

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Location Number Percent Location Number Percent
Bar or Nightclub 4 8.3% Bar or Nightclub 4 8.3%

College 1 2.1% College 1 2.1%
Commercial Location 2 4.2% Commercial Location 2 4.2%
Convenience Store/ Convenience Store/
Gas Station 2 4.2% Gas Station 2 4.2%
Field/Woods 3 6.3% Field/Woods 3 6.3%
Highway, Road or Street 12 25.0% Highway, Road or Street 12 25.0%
Other or Unknown 2 4.2% Other or Unknown 2 4.2%
Parking Lot 5 10.4% Parking Lot 5 10.4%
Residence 17 35.4% Residence 17 35.4%
Total 48 100.0% Total 48 100.0%
rounding. rounding.
76 76
Gang Murders by Location Gang Murders by Location
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
College 1 College 1
Other/Unknown 2 Other/Unknown 2
Convenience Store/Gas Convenience Store/Gas

2 2
Station Station
Commerical Location 2 Commerical Location 2
Field/Woods 3 Field/Woods 3
Bar/Nightclub 4 Bar/Nightclub 4
Parking Lot 5 Parking Lot 5
Highway, Road or Highway, Road or

12 12
Street Street
Residence 17 Residence 17
77 77
Firearms accounted for 94% of the weapons Firearms accounted for 94% of the weapons
reported in gang murders. Handguns were reported in gang murders. Handguns were
involved in 60% of gang murders. involved in 60% of gang murders.
WEAPON USE IN GANG MURDERS WEAPON USE IN GANG MURDERS

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Weapon Number Percent Weapon Number Percent
Blunt Object 1 2.0% Blunt Object 1 2.0%

Firearms 47 94.0% Firearms 47 94.0%
Handguns 30 60.0% Handguns 30 60.0%
Rifles 3 6.0% Rifles 3 6.0%
Shotguns 4 8.0% Shotguns 4 8.0%
Unknown Firearms 10 20.0% Unknown Firearms 10 20.0%
Hands, feet, fists 1 2.0% Hands, feet, fists 1 2.0%
Knives 1 2.0% Knives 1 2.0%
Total 50 100.0% Total 50 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. SCIBRS allows up to three weapon types to be Notes: Unit of count – victims. SCIBRS allows up to three weapon types to be
recorded. Reports of unknown weapons were not included. Handguns, rifles, recorded. Reports of unknown weapons were not included. Handguns, rifles,
shotguns and unknown firearms are subcategories of the comprehensive firearms shotguns and unknown firearms are subcategories of the comprehensive firearms
category; consequently the total of the percent column exceeds 100. category; consequently the total of the percent column exceeds 100.
78 78
Weapon Use in Gang Murders Weapon Use in Gang Murders
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Blunt Objects 2.0% Blunt Objects 2.0%
Hands, Feet & Fists 2.0% Hands, Feet & Fists 2.0%
Knives 2.0% Knives 2.0%
Rifles 6.0% Rifles 6.0%
Shotguns 8.0% Shotguns 8.0%
Unknown Firearms 20.0% Unknown Firearms 20.0%
Handguns 60.0% Handguns 60.0%
79 79
The mean average age for gang murder The mean average age for gang murder
victims was 24.5 years. Young adults from 17 victims was 24.5 years. Young adults from 17
to 25 years old accounted for 53.2% of gang to 25 years old accounted for 53.2% of gang
murder victims. murder victims.
GANG MURDER VICTIMS BY AGE GANG MURDER VICTIMS BY AGE

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Age Group Number Percent Age Group Number Percent
10 & younger 1 2.1% 10 & younger 1 2.1%

11 - 16 3 6.4% 11 - 16 3 6.4%
17 - 21 25 53.2% 17 - 21 25 53.2%
22 - 24 4 8.5% 22 - 24 4 8.5%
25 - 34 8 17.0% 25 - 34 8 17.0%
35 - 44 3 6.4% 35 - 44 3 6.4%
45 - 54 1 2.1% 45 - 54 1 2.1%
55 - 65 2 4.3% 55 - 65 2 4.3%
65 & older 0 0.0% 65 & older 0 0.0%
Total 47 100.0% Total 47 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. One victim’s age was entered as a range that did not Notes: Unit of count – victims. One victim’s age was entered as a range that did not
allow inclusion. allow inclusion.
80 80
Gang Murder Victims by Age Gang Murder Victims by Age
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
10 & younger 1 10 & younger 1
11 - 16 3 11 - 16 3
17 - 21 25 17 - 21 25
22 - 24 4 22 - 24 4
Age Group
Age Group
25 - 34 8 25 - 34 8
35 - 44 3 35 - 44 3
45 - 54 1 45 - 54 1
55 - 65 2 55 - 65 2
65 & older 0 65 & older 0
81 81
Juveniles and young adults accounted for Juveniles and young adults accounted for
68.8% of gang related murder victims. Young 68.8% of gang related murder victims. Young
adults from 17 to 19 accounted for 33.3% of adults from 17 to 19 accounted for 33.3% of
the gang murder victims. the gang murder victims.
JUVENILE AND YOUNG ADULT VICTIMS JUVENILE AND YOUNG ADULT VICTIMS
OF GANG MURDER BY AGE OF GANG MURDER BY AGE
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
10 & younger 1 2.1% 10 & younger 1 2.1%

11 - 12 0 0.0% 11 - 12 0 0.0%
13 - 14 1 2.1% 13 - 14 1 2.1%
15 - 16 2 4.2% 15 - 16 2 4.2%
17 - 19 16 33.3% 17 - 19 16 33.3%
20 - 21 9 18.8% 20 - 21 9 18.8%
22 - 24 4 8.3% 22 - 24 4 8.3%
Total 33 68.8% Total 33 68.8%
Notes: Unit of count – victims. Percent represents the percent each age category Notes: Unit of count – victims. Percent represents the percent each age category
comprises of all gang murder victims with usable age data. One victim’s age was comprises of all gang murder victims with usable age data. One victim’s age was
entered as a range that did not allow inclusion. entered as a range that did not allow inclusion.
82 82
Juvenile and Young Adult Victims Juvenile and Young Adult Victims
of Gang Murder by Age of Gang Murder by Age
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
10 & younger 1 10 & younger 1
11 -12 0 11 -12 0
13 - 14 1 13 - 14 1
Age Group
Age Group
15 - 16 2 15 - 16 2
17 - 19 16 17 - 19 16
20 - 21 9 20 - 21 9
22 - 24 4 22 - 24 4
83 83
Males accounted for 89.6% of gang murder Males accounted for 89.6% of gang murder
victims, females made up 10.4% of gang victims, females made up 10.4% of gang
murder victims. murder victims.
GANG MURDER VICTIMS BY SEX GANG MURDER VICTIMS BY SEX

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Sex Number Percent Sex Number Percent
Female 5 10.4% Female 5 10.4%

Male 43 89.6% Male 43 89.6%
Total 48 100.0% Total 48 100.0%

84 84
Gang Murder Victims by Sex Gang Murder Victims by Sex
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
89.6% 89.6%
10.4% 10.4%
85 85
Of the total gang murder victims from 1998 Of the total gang murder victims from 1998
through 2007, 85.4% were Black and 14.6% through 2007, 85.4% were Black and 14.6%
were White. were White.
GANG MURDER VICTIMS BY RACE GANG MURDER VICTIMS BY RACE

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Asian 0 0.0% Asian 0 0.0%

Black 41 85.4% Black 41 85.4%
White 7 14.6% White 7 14.6%
Total 48 100.0% Total 48 100.0%

86 86
Gang Murder Victims by Race Gang Murder Victims by Race
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
85.4% 85.4%
14.6% 14.6%
White Black White Black
87 87
Non-Hispanics accounted for 91.7% of gang Non-Hispanics accounted for 91.7% of gang
murder victims, 8.3% of the gang murder murder victims, 8.3% of the gang murder
victims were Hispanic. victims were Hispanic.
GANG MURDER VICTIMS BY ETHNICITY GANG MURDER VICTIMS BY ETHNICITY

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Ethnicity Number Percent Ethnicity Number Percent
Hispanic 4 8.3% Hispanic 4 8.3%

Non-Hispanic 44 91.7% Non-Hispanic 44 91.7%
Total 48 100.0% Total 48 100.0%

88 88
Gang Murder Victims by Ethnicity Gang Murder Victims by Ethnicity
1998 -2007 1998 -2007
91.7% 91.7%
8.3% 8.3%
89 89
Acquaintances made up 47.8% of the victim to Acquaintances made up 47.8% of the victim to
offender relationships in gang murders. offender relationships in gang murders.
GANG MURDER VICTIMS GANG MURDER VICTIMS

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Acquaintance 64 47.8% Acquaintance 64 47.8%

Friend 2 1.5% Friend 2 1.5%
In-law 1 0.7% In-law 1 0.7%
Otherwise Known 17 12.7% Otherwise Known 17 12.7%
Stranger 50 37.3% Stranger 50 37.3%
Total 134 100.0% Total 134 100.0%
relationships. Unknown victim to offender relationships were excluded. relationships. Unknown victim to offender relationships were excluded.
90 90
Gang Murder Gang Murder
Victim to Offender Relationships Victim to Offender Relationships
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
In-law 0.7% In-law 0.7%
Friend 1.5% Friend 1.5%
Otherwise Known 12.7% Otherwise Known 12.7%
Stranger 37.3% Stranger 37.3%
Acquaintance 47.8% Acquaintance 47.8%
91 91
Alcohol use by the victim was reported in 6.3% Alcohol use by the victim was reported in 6.3%
of gang murders. No other substance use of gang murders. No other substance use
among victims was reported. among victims was reported.
VICTIM SUBSTANCE USE IN GANG MURDERS VICTIM SUBSTANCE USE IN GANG MURDERS
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007

No Substance Reported 45 93.8% No Substance Reported 45 93.8%
Total 48 100.0% Total 48 100.0%
rounding. rounding.
92 92
Victim Substance Use in Gang Murders Victim Substance Use in Gang Murders
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
93.8% 93.8%
6.3% 6.3%
Alcohol Only No Substance Reported Alcohol Only No Substance Reported
93 93
The mean average age for gang murder The mean average age for gang murder
offenders was 20.6 years. Young adults from offenders was 20.6 years. Young adults from
17 to 21 years old accounted for 60.7% of gang 17 to 21 years old accounted for 60.7% of gang
murder offenders. murder offenders.
GANG MURDER OFFENDERS BY AGE GANG MURDER OFFENDERS BY AGE

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
10 & younger 0 0.0% 10 & younger 0 0.0%

11 - 16 17 11.3% 11 - 16 17 11.3%
17 - 21 91 60.7% 17 - 21 91 60.7%
22 - 24 16 10.7% 22 - 24 16 10.7%
25 - 34 23 15.3% 25 - 34 23 15.3%
35 - 44 2 1.3% 35 - 44 2 1.3%
45 - 54 1 0.7% 45 - 54 1 0.7%
55 - 64 0 0.0% 55 - 64 0 0.0%
65 & older 0 0.0% 65 & older 0 0.0%
Total 150 100.0% Total 150 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – offenders. A total of 9 offenders were missing age data or Notes: Unit of count – offenders. A total of 9 offenders were missing age data or
the age was entered as a range that did not allow inclusion. the age was entered as a range that did not allow inclusion.
94 94
Gang Murder Offenders by Age Gang Murder Offenders by Age
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
10 & younger 0.0% 10 & younger 0.0%
11 - 16 11.3% 11 - 16 11.3%
17 - 21 60.7% 17 - 21 60.7%
22 - 24 10.7% 22 - 24 10.7%
Age Group
Age Group
25 - 34 15.3% 25 - 34 15.3%
35 - 44 1.3% 35 - 44 1.3%
45 - 54 0.7% 45 - 54 0.7%
55 - 64 0.0% 55 - 64 0.0%
65 & older 0.0% 65 & older 0.0%
95 95
Juveniles and young adults accounted for Juveniles and young adults accounted for
82.7% of gang murder offenders. Young 82.7% of gang murder offenders. Young
adults from 17 to 19 years old accounted for adults from 17 to 19 years old accounted for
50.8% of gang murder offenders. 50.8% of gang murder offenders.
JUVENILE AND YOUNG ADULT JUVENILE AND YOUNG ADULT

GANG MURDER OFFENDERS BY AGE GANG MURDER OFFENDERS BY AGE
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
10 & younger 0 0.0% 10 & younger 0 0.0%

11 - 12 0 0.0% 11 - 12 0 0.0%
13 - 14 3 2.0% 13 - 14 3 2.0%
15 - 16 14 9.3% 15 - 16 14 9.3%
17 - 19 63 42.0% 17 - 19 63 42.0%
20 - 21 28 18.7% 20 - 21 28 18.7%
22 - 24 16 10.7% 22 - 24 16 10.7%
Total 124 82.7% Total 124 82.7%
Notes: Unit of count – offenders. Percent represents the percent each age category Notes: Unit of count – offenders. Percent represents the percent each age category
comprises of all gang murder offenders with usable age data. A total of 9 offenders comprises of all gang murder offenders with usable age data. A total of 9 offenders
were missing age data or the age was entered as a range. were missing age data or the age was entered as a range.
96 96
Juvenile and Young Adult Juvenile and Young Adult
Gang Murder Offenders by Age Gang Murder Offenders by Age
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
11 -12 0.0% 11 -12 0.0%
13 - 14 2.0% 13 - 14 2.0%
Age Group
Age Group
15 - 16 9.3% 15 - 16 9.3%
17 - 19 42.0% 17 - 19 42.0%
20 - 21 18.7% 20 - 21 18.7%
22 - 24 10.7% 22 - 24 10.7%
97 97
Males comprised 94.2% the offenders in gang Males comprised 94.2% the offenders in gang
murders, 5.8% of the offenders were female. murders, 5.8% of the offenders were female.
GANG MURDER OFFENDERS BY SEX GANG MURDER OFFENDERS BY SEX

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007

Male 145 94.2% Male 145 94.2%
Total 154 100.0% Total 154 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – offenders. A total of 5 offenders were of unknown sex or Notes: Unit of count – offenders. A total of 5 offenders were of unknown sex or
missing sex data. missing sex data.
98 98
Gang Murder Offenders by Sex Gang Murder Offenders by Sex
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
94.2% 94.2%
5.8% 5.8%
99 99
Blacks made up 89.6% of gang murder Blacks made up 89.6% of gang murder
offenders, 10.4% were White. offenders, 10.4% were White.
GANG MURDER OFFENDERS BY RACE GANG MURDER OFFENDERS BY RACE

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007

Black 138 89.6% Black 138 89.6%
White 16 10.4% White 16 10.4%
Total 154 100.0% Total 154 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – offenders. A total of 5 offenders were of unknown race or Notes: Unit of count – offenders. A total of 5 offenders were of unknown race or
missing race data. missing race data.
100 100
Gang Murder Offenders by Race Gang Murder Offenders by Race
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
89.6% 89.6%
10.4% 10.4%
White Black White Black
101 101
Non-Hispanics accounted for 93.9% of Non-Hispanics accounted for 93.9% of
offenders in gang murders, 6.1% of gang offenders in gang murders, 6.1% of gang
offenders in gang murders were Hispanic. offenders in gang murders were Hispanic.
GANG MURDER OFFENDERS BY ETHNICITY GANG MURDER OFFENDERS BY ETHNICITY

1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
Ethnicity Number Percent Ethnicity Number Percent

Non-Hispanic 138 93.9% Non-Hispanic 138 93.9%
Total 147 100.0% Total 147 100.0%
Notes: Unit of count – offenders. A total of 12 offenders were of unknown ethnicity Notes: Unit of count – offenders. A total of 12 offenders were of unknown ethnicity
or missing ethnicity data. or missing ethnicity data.
102 102
Gang Murder Offenders by Ethnicity Gang Murder Offenders by Ethnicity
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
93.9% 93.9%
6.1% 6.1%
103 103
Substance use by an offender was reported in Substance use by an offender was reported in
4.2% of gang murders. 4.2% of gang murders.
OFFENDER SUBSTANCE USE OFFENDER SUBSTANCE USE

IN GANG MURDERS IN GANG MURDERS
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007

No Substance Reported 46 95.8% No Substance Reported 46 95.8%
Total 48 100.0% Total 48 100.0%

104 104
Offender Substance Use Offender Substance Use
in Gang Murders in Gang Murders
1998 - 2007 1998 - 2007
95.8% 95.8%
2.1% 2.1% 2.1% 2.1%
Alcohol Only Alcohol & Drugs No Substance Reported Alcohol Only Alcohol & Drugs No Substance Reported
105 105
106 106
Gangs in Prison Gangs in Prison
SCDC has been collecting information about inmate SCDC has been collecting information about inmate
gang membership since 1995 and has well defined gang membership since 1995 and has well defined
procedures tied to agency policies for identifying gang procedures tied to agency policies for identifying gang
members. STG Unit officers are trained to identify and members. STG Unit officers are trained to identify and
deal with gang members. The identification process deal with gang members. The identification process
starts during the admission process and includes starts during the admission process and includes
examination for tattoos, as well as a review of personal examination for tattoos, as well as a review of personal
belongings including photographs, documents and belongings including photographs, documents and
clothing. New inmates are questioned about gang clothing. New inmates are questioned about gang
affiliation and searches are conducted for previous law affiliation and searches are conducted for previous law
enforcement documentation of gang membership. enforcement documentation of gang membership.
Throughout the period of incarceration, correspondence Throughout the period of incarceration, correspondence
and phone calls are screened and any evidence of gang and phone calls are screened and any evidence of gang
membership or association with known gang members membership or association with known gang members
is recorded. is recorded.
To be validated as a gang member, SCDC policy To be validated as a gang member, SCDC policy
requires that at least two of the following criteria be requires that at least two of the following criteria be
met: self admission of membership, a gang tattoo, staff met: self admission of membership, a gang tattoo, staff
reports indicating gang membership, confidential reports indicating gang membership, confidential
informant information indicating membership, inmate informant information indicating membership, inmate
correspondence identifying their affiliation, the presence correspondence identifying their affiliation, the presence
of gang group photos, possession of gang of gang group photos, possession of gang
publications/documents, use of symbols, logs, hand publications/documents, use of symbols, logs, hand
signs, etc., or involvement in gang activities. signs, etc., or involvement in gang activities.
107 107
A total of 1,137 inmates were identified as A total of 1,137 inmates were identified as
gang members at the end of FY 08. This gang members at the end of FY 08. This
represents a 4.6% of the jurisdictional represents a 4.6% of the jurisdictional
population in FY 08. population in FY 08.
INMATE GANG MEMBERS INMATE GANG MEMBERS

END OF FISCAL YEAR COUNT END OF FISCAL YEAR COUNT
Fiscal Percent of Fiscal Percent of

Year Number Inmates Year Number Inmates
2000 401 1.8% 2000 401 1.8%

2001 668 3.0% 2001 668 3.0%
2002 890 3.9% 2002 890 3.9%
2003 743 3.1% 2003 743 3.1%
2004 927 3.9% 2004 927 3.9%
2005 1,192 5.0% 2005 1,192 5.0%
2006 1,415 6.0% 2006 1,415 6.0%
2007 1,347 5.6% 2007 1,347 5.6%
2008 1,137 4.6% 2008 1,137 4.6%
Notes: Gang members include inmates who are suspected or validated as being gang Notes: Gang members include inmates who are suspected or validated as being gang
members. End of year counts for FY 06 and FY 07 represent counts at the end of members. End of year counts for FY 06 and FY 07 represent counts at the end of
May for each of those years. The percent of inmates column represents the percent May for each of those years. The percent of inmates column represents the percent
that inmate gang members represented of the jurisdictional population at the end of that inmate gang members represented of the jurisdictional population at the end of
that fiscal year. that fiscal year.
Sources: Unpublished report, SCDC; Statistical Reports, SCDC. Sources: Unpublished report, SCDC; Statistical Reports, SCDC.
108 108
Inmate Gang Members Inmate Gang Members
1,600 1,600
1,400 1,400
1,200 1,200
1,000 1,000
Number of Gang Members
Number of Gang Members

800 800
600 600
400 400
200 200
0 0
00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08
Fiscal Year Fiscal Year
109 109
Of the 1,137 inmates identified as gang Of the 1,137 inmates identified as gang
members at the end of FY 08, 74.7% were members at the end of FY 08, 74.7% were
suspected of being gang members, 25.3% were suspected of being gang members, 25.3% were
validated as being gang members. validated as being gang members.

BY LEVEL OF VERIFICATION BY LEVEL OF VERIFICATION
JUNE 30, 2008 JUNE 30, 2008
Level of Level of
Verification Number Percent Verification Number Percent
Suspected 849 74.7% Suspected 849 74.7%

Validated 288 25.3% Validated 288 25.3%
Total 1,137 100.0% Total 1,137 100.0%
Source: Unpublished report, SCDC. Source: Unpublished report, SCDC.
110 110
by Verification Level by Verification Level
June 30, 2008 June 30, 2008
74.7% 74.7%
25.3% 25.3%
Validated Suspected Validated Suspected
111 111
A total of 34 gang affiliations among gang A total of 34 gang affiliations among gang
inmate members were identified. inmate members were identified.
INMATE GANG MEMBERS BY AFFILIATION INMATE GANG MEMBERS BY AFFILIATION

JUNE 30, 2008 JUNE 30, 2008
Gang Affiliation Number Percent Gang Affiliation Number Percent
Aryan Brotherhood 9 0.8% Aryan Brotherhood 9 0.8%

Black Gangster Disciples 28 2.5% Black Gangster Disciples 28 2.5%
Black Liberation Army 9 0.8% Black Liberation Army 9 0.8%
Bloods 256 22.5% Bloods 256 22.5%
Crips 78 6.9% Crips 78 6.9%
Five Percenters 284 25.0% Five Percenters 284 25.0%
Folk Nation 333 29.3% Folk Nation 333 29.3%
Gangster Disciples 8 0.7% Gangster Disciples 8 0.7%
Insane Gangster Disciples 14 1.2% Insane Gangster Disciples 14 1.2%
Other 44 3.9% Other 44 3.9%
People Nation 9 0.8% People Nation 9 0.8%
Satanic Cults 11 1.0% Satanic Cults 11 1.0%
Satanism 10 0.9% Satanism 10 0.9%
Supreme White Power 9 0.8% Supreme White Power 9 0.8%
White Supremacy 35 3.1% White Supremacy 35 3.1%
Total 1,137 100.0% Total 1,137 100.0%
Notes: Other consists of 20 gangs with 5 or fewer identified members. The percent Notes: Other consists of 20 gangs with 5 or fewer identified members. The percent
column does not total 100 due to rounding. column does not total 100 due to rounding.
112 112
Inmate Gang Members by Affiliation Inmate Gang Members by Affiliation
June 30, 2008 June 30, 2008
Satanism 10 Satanism 10
Satanic Cults 11 Satanic Cults 11
Insane Gangster Insane Gangster

14 14
Disciples Disciples
Black Gangster Black Gangster

28 28
Disciples Disciples
White Supremacy 35 White Supremacy 35
Crips 78 Crips 78
Bloods 256 Bloods 256
Five Percenters 284 Five Percenters 284
Folk Nation 333 Folk Nation 333
113 113
Richland County committed the largest Richland County committed the largest
number of identified inmate gang members. number of identified inmate gang members.
INMATE GANG MEMBERS BY COUNTY INMATE GANG MEMBERS BY COUNTY

JUNE 30, 2008 JUNE 30, 2008

Sources: Unpublished report, SCDC; population estimates, ORS. Sources: Unpublished report, SCDC; population estimates, ORS.
114 114
Bamberg County had the highest rate of Bamberg County had the highest rate of
identified inmate gang member admissions. identified inmate gang member admissions.
INMATE GANG MEMBERS BY COUNTY INMATE GANG MEMBERS BY COUNTY

COUNTIES WITH THE TEN HIGHEST RATES COUNTIES WITH THE TEN HIGHEST RATES
JUNE 30, 2008 JUNE 30, 2008
Bamberg 13 8.4 Bamberg 13 8.4

Lee 15 7.5 Lee 15 7.5
Clarendon 23 7.0 Clarendon 23 7.0
Richland 246 6.9 Richland 246 6.9
Williamsburg 24 6.8 Williamsburg 24 6.8
Marlboro 18 6.2 Marlboro 18 6.2
Orangeburg 49 5.4 Orangeburg 49 5.4
Darlington 35 5.2 Darlington 35 5.2
Sources: Unpublished report, SCDC; population estimates, ORS. Sources: Unpublished report, SCDC; population estimates, ORS.
115 115
Gang member inmates accounted for a total of Gang member inmates accounted for a total of
3,438 violations during FY 08. 3,438 violations during FY 08.
VIOLATIONS INVOLVING VIOLATIONS INVOLVING

FY 08 FY 08
Type of Type of
Violation Number Percent Violation Number Percent
Contraband 630 18.3% Contraband 630 18.3%

Inmate Rules 1,573 45.8% Inmate Rules 1,573 45.8%
Other 108 3.1% Other 108 3.1%
Property Offenses 172 5.0% Property Offenses 172 5.0%
Sexual Violations 331 9.6% Sexual Violations 331 9.6%
Substance Abuse 182 5.3% Substance Abuse 182 5.3%
Violence/Threat 442 12.9% Violence/Threat 442 12.9%
Total 3,438 100.0% Total 3,438 100.0%
116 116
Violations Involving Violations Involving
FY 08 FY 08
Other 108 Other 108
Property Offenses 172 Property Offenses 172
Substance Abuse Substance Abuse

182 182
Violations Violations
Sexual Violations 331 Sexual Violations 331
Violence/Threat 442 Violence/Threat 442
Contraband 630 Contraband 630
Inmate Rules 1,573 Inmate Rules 1,573
117 117
Of the violations involving violence or the Of the violations involving violence or the
threat of violence by inmate gang members, threat of violence by inmate gang members,
the most common violation was threatening an the most common violation was threatening an
employee. employee.
VIOLENT VIOLATIONS INVOLVING VIOLENT VIOLATIONS INVOLVING

FY 08 FY 08
Violation Number Percent Violation Number Percent
Assaulting Employees 79 17.9% Assaulting Employees 79 17.9%

Assaulting Inmates 64 14.5% Assaulting Inmates 64 14.5%
Fighting 77 17.4% Fighting 77 17.4%
Homicide 1 0.2% Homicide 1 0.2%
Hostage Taking 1 0.2% Hostage Taking 1 0.2%
Riot 6 1.4% Riot 6 1.4%
Sexual Assault 14 3.2% Sexual Assault 14 3.2%
Threats to Employees 178 40.3% Threats to Employees 178 40.3%
Threats to Inmates 15 3.4% Threats to Inmates 15 3.4%
Total 442 100.0% Total 442 100.0%
Note: The percent column does not total 100 due to rounding. Note: The percent column does not total 100 due to rounding.
118 118
Inmate Gang Member Violence Inmate Gang Member Violence
FY 08 FY 08
Hostage Taking 1 Hostage Taking 1
Homicide 1 Homicide 1
Riot 6 Riot 6
Robbery 7 Robbery 7
Sexual Assault 14 Sexual Assault 14
Threats to Inmates 15 Threats to Inmates 15
Assaulting Inmates 64 Assaulting Inmates 64
Fighting 77 Fighting 77
Assaulting Employees 79 Assaulting Employees 79
Threats to Employees 178 Threats to Employees 178
119 119
Of the gang related violations involving Of the gang related violations involving
contraband, cell phones were the most often contraband, cell phones were the most often
reported specific item. reported specific item.
CONTRABAND VIOLATIONS CONTRABAND VIOLATIONS

INVOLVING INMATE GANG MEMBERS INVOLVING INMATE GANG MEMBERS
FY 08 FY 08
Type of Type of
Contraband Number Percent Contraband Number Percent
Cell Phone 129 20.5% Cell Phone 129 20.5%

Contraband (unspecified) 309 49.0% Contraband (unspecified) 309 49.0%
Security Equipment 6 1.0% Security Equipment 6 1.0%
Smuggling 4 0.6% Smuggling 4 0.6%
Tattoo Equipment 46 7.3% Tattoo Equipment 46 7.3%
Trafficking/Trading 25 4.0% Trafficking/Trading 25 4.0%
Weapons 111 17.6% Weapons 111 17.6%
Total 630 100.0% Total 630 100.0%
120 120
Contraband Violations Contraband Violations
by Inmate Gang Members by Inmate Gang Members
FY 08 FY 08
Smuggling 4 Smuggling 4
Security Equipment 6 Security Equipment 6
Trafficking/Trading 25 Trafficking/Trading 25
Tattoo Equipment 46 Tattoo Equipment 46
Weapons 111 Weapons 111
Cell Phone 129 Cell Phone 129
Contraband - Contraband -
309 309
nonspecific nonspecific
121 121
122 122
Gangs in Community Corrections Gangs in Community Corrections
SCDPPPS has been collecting information concerning SCDPPPS has been collecting information concerning
gang membership at offender admission since July gang membership at offender admission since July
2000. Historically the utility of this information beyond 2000. Historically the utility of this information beyond
the case level was limited, as much of the specific the case level was limited, as much of the specific
information relating to gang membership was entered as information relating to gang membership was entered as
narrative text, a format not conducive to statistical narrative text, a format not conducive to statistical
analysis. However in 2007, SCDPPPS implemented analysis. However in 2007, SCDPPPS implemented
several changes that allow gang related data elements to several changes that allow gang related data elements to
be coded and automated. The resulting data source is be coded and automated. The resulting data source is
much more amenable to analysis. much more amenable to analysis.
This report focuses primarily on gang members under This report focuses primarily on gang members under
community correctional supervision on September 18, community correctional supervision on September 18,
2008. Identification of gang members usually occurs 2008. Identification of gang members usually occurs
during the admission process, although an offender may during the admission process, although an offender may
be identified as a gang member at any time during his be identified as a gang member at any time during his
period of supervision. Data which mark an offender as period of supervision. Data which mark an offender as
a gang member, identify a specific gang affiliation, a gang member, identify a specific gang affiliation,
determine the level of membership and provide determine the level of membership and provide
descriptors of physical features such as tattoos and descriptors of physical features such as tattoos and
photographs are recorded and stored. Additionally, photographs are recorded and stored. Additionally,
information such as demographic factors, commitment information such as demographic factors, commitment
offenses, levels of supervision and any other data offenses, levels of supervision and any other data
collected for all community corrections offenders are collected for all community corrections offenders are
also available for identified gang members. also available for identified gang members.
123 123
There were 886 identified gang members There were 886 identified gang members
under community correctional supervision under community correctional supervision
representing 2.9% of the offender population. representing 2.9% of the offender population.
Drug offenses were the most common offense Drug offenses were the most common offense
reported among gang members under reported among gang members under
community correctional supervision. community correctional supervision.
COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS

GANG MEMBERS BY OFFENSE GANG MEMBERS BY OFFENSE
SEPTEMBER 18, 2008 SEPTEMBER 18, 2008
Assault 141 15.9% Assault 141 15.9%

Burglary 149 16.8% Burglary 149 16.8%
DUI 15 1.7% DUI 15 1.7%
Drugs 201 22.7% Drugs 201 22.7%
Larceny 47 5.3% Larceny 47 5.3%
Homicide 18 2.0% Homicide 18 2.0%
Other 95 10.7% Other 95 10.7%
Other Property 93 10.5% Other Property 93 10.5%
Traffic 21 2.4% Traffic 21 2.4%
Weapons 36 4.1% Weapons 36 4.1%
Total 886 100.0% Total 886 100.0%
Notes: Offense is based on the most serious conviction offense. Homicide includes Notes: Offense is based on the most serious conviction offense. Homicide includes
murder, manslaughter and accessory to homicide. Percent of gang members is based murder, manslaughter and accessory to homicide. Percent of gang members is based
on SCDPPPS total population on September 31, 2008. on SCDPPPS total population on September 31, 2008.
Source: Unpublished data files, SCDPPPS. Source: Unpublished data files, SCDPPPS.
124 124
Community Corrections Community Corrections
Gang Members by Offense Gang Members by Offense
September 18, 2008 September 18, 2008
DUI 1.7% DUI 1.7%
Homicide 2.0% Homicide 2.0%
Traffic 2.4% Traffic 2.4%
Weapons 4.1% Weapons 4.1%
Larceny 5.3% Larceny 5.3%
Other Property 10.5% Other Property 10.5%
Assault 15.9% Assault 15.9%
Burglary 16.8% Burglary 16.8%
Drugs 22.7% Drugs 22.7%
125 125
There were 886 active offenders identified as There were 886 active offenders identified as
gang members under community correctional gang members under community correctional
supervision. A total of 24 gangs were supervision. A total of 24 gangs were
identified. identified.

GANG MEMBERS BY AFFILIATION GANG MEMBERS BY AFFILIATION
Gang Affiliation Number Percent Gang Affiliation Number Percent
Bloods 29 17.1% Bloods 29 17.1%

Crips 18 10.6% Crips 18 10.6%
District-25, D-25 37 21.8% District-25, D-25 37 21.8%
Folk Nation 52 30.6% Folk Nation 52 30.6%
Other 26 15.3% Other 26 15.3%
West Greenville, West G's 8 4.7% West Greenville, West G's 8 4.7%
Total 170 100.0% Total 170 100.0%
Notes: Other includes 19 gangs with 5 or fewer identified members under Notes: Other includes 19 gangs with 5 or fewer identified members under
community correctional supervision. A total of 715 identified gang members did not community correctional supervision. A total of 715 identified gang members did not
have specific gang affiliations reported. The percent column does not add up to 100 have specific gang affiliations reported. The percent column does not add up to 100
due to rounding. due to rounding.
126 126
Gang Members by Affiliation Gang Members by Affiliation
West Greenville, West West Greenville, West

8 8
G's G's
Crips 18 Crips 18
Bloods 29 Bloods 29
District-25, D-25 37 District-25, D-25 37
Folk Nation 52 Folk Nation 52
127 127
Greenville County had the largest number of Greenville County had the largest number of
identified gang members under community identified gang members under community
correctional supervision. correctional supervision.

GANG MEMBERS BY SUPERVISING COUNTY GANG MEMBERS BY SUPERVISING COUNTY

Note: A total of 25 offenders supervised in the central office or a restitution center Note: A total of 25 offenders supervised in the central office or a restitution center
were excluded from this table. were excluded from this table.
Sources: Unpublished data files, SCDPPPS; population estimates, ORS. Sources: Unpublished data files, SCDPPPS; population estimates, ORS.
128 128
Allendale County had the highest rate of Allendale County had the highest rate of
correctional supervision. correctional supervision.

GANG MEMBERS BY SUPERVISING COUNTY GANG MEMBERS BY SUPERVISING COUNTY
COUNTIES WITH THE TEN HIGHEST RATES COUNTIES WITH THE TEN HIGHEST RATES
Allendale 7 6.7 Allendale 7 6.7

Hampton 8 3.8 Hampton 8 3.8
Jasper 8 3.7 Jasper 8 3.7
Fairfield 8 3.4 Fairfield 8 3.4
Clarendon 11 3.4 Clarendon 11 3.4
Greenville 139 3.3 Greenville 139 3.3
Bamberg 5 3.2 Bamberg 5 3.2
Richland 115 3.2 Richland 115 3.2
Williamsburg 11 3.1 Williamsburg 11 3.1
Note: Florence and Williamsburg counties tied for the tenth rank. Note: Florence and Williamsburg counties tied for the tenth rank.
Source: Unpublished data files, SCDPPPS; population estimates, ORS. Source: Unpublished data files, SCDPPPS; population estimates, ORS.
129 129
The mean average age among community The mean average age among community
corrections gang members was 26.3 years. The corrections gang members was 26.3 years. The
17 to 24 age group comprised 59.4% of the 17 to 24 age group comprised 59.4% of the
corrections supervision. corrections supervision.

GANG MEMBERS BY AGE GANG MEMBERS BY AGE
16 & younger 3 0.3% 16 & younger 3 0.3%

17 - 24 526 59.4% 17 - 24 526 59.4%
25 - 34 225 25.4% 25 - 34 225 25.4%
35 - 44 84 9.5% 35 - 44 84 9.5%
45 - 54 36 4.1% 45 - 54 36 4.1%
55 & older 11 1.2% 55 & older 11 1.2%
Total 885 100.0% Total 885 100.0%
Note: One offender was missing age data. Note: One offender was missing age data.
130 130
Gang Members by Age Gang Members by Age
17 - 24 59.4% 17 - 24 59.4%
25 - 34 25.4% 25 - 34 25.4%
Age Group
Age Group
35 - 44 9.5% 35 - 44 9.5%
45 - 54 4.1% 45 - 54 4.1%
55 & older 1.2% 55 & older 1.2%
131 131
Of the identified gang members under Of the identified gang members under
community correctional supervision, 93.1% community correctional supervision, 93.1%
were male, 6.9% were female. were male, 6.9% were female.

GANG MEMBERS BY SEX GANG MEMBERS BY SEX

Male 825 93.1% Male 825 93.1%
Total 886 100.0% Total 886 100.0%
132 132
Gang Members by Sex Gang Members by Sex
93.1% 93.1%
6.9% 6.9%
133 133
Of the identified gang members under Of the identified gang members under
community correctional supervision, 63.7% community correctional supervision, 63.7%
were Black, 34.5% were White. were Black, 34.5% were White.

GANG MEMBERS BY RACE GANG MEMBERS BY RACE

Black 564 63.7% Black 564 63.7%
Other 2 0.2% Other 2 0.2%
White 306 34.5% White 306 34.5%
Total 886 100.0% Total 886 100.0%
Notes: SCDPPPS data defines Hispanic as a racial category, rather than as a Notes: SCDPPPS data defines Hispanic as a racial category, rather than as a
separate ethnicity variable. The percent column does not total 100 due to rounding. separate ethnicity variable. The percent column does not total 100 due to rounding.
134 134
Gang Members by Race Gang Members by Race
Hispanic 1.2% Hispanic 1.2%
135 135
A total of 1,257 offenders identified as gang A total of 1,257 offenders identified as gang
members have been closed out of community members have been closed out of community
correctional supervision. Of that total, 44.1% correctional supervision. Of that total, 44.1%
were revoked for criminal or technical were revoked for criminal or technical
violations. violations.

GANG MEMBERS BY REASON CASE CLOSED GANG MEMBERS BY REASON CASE CLOSED
Reason Reason
Case Closed Number Percent Case Closed Number Percent
Deceased 17 1.4% Deceased 17 1.4%

Deported 3 0.2% Deported 3 0.2%
Early Termination 82 6.5% Early Termination 82 6.5%
Expired 387 30.8% Expired 387 30.8%
Judicial Closure 86 6.8% Judicial Closure 86 6.8%
PTUP 88 7.0% PTUP 88 7.0%
Rescinded 7 0.6% Rescinded 7 0.6%
Returned 33 2.6% Returned 33 2.6%
Revoked Criminal 60 4.8% Revoked Criminal 60 4.8%
Revoked Technical 494 39.3% Revoked Technical 494 39.3%
Total 1,257 100.0% Total 1,257 100.0%
Notes: This includes all offenders identified as gang members closed out from Notes: This includes all offenders identified as gang members closed out from
community corrections supervision on or prior to September 18, 2008. The acronym community corrections supervision on or prior to September 18, 2008. The acronym
PTUP stands for probation terminated upon payment (of fines and fees). Revoked PTUP stands for probation terminated upon payment (of fines and fees). Revoked
technical includes offenders revoked for technical offenses and offenders revoked technical includes offenders revoked for technical offenses and offenders revoked
with technical offense charges pending. with technical offense charges pending.
136 136
Community Corrections Gang Members Community Corrections Gang Members
by Reason Case Closed by Reason Case Closed
Death/Deported/Rescind 2.1% Death/Deported/Rescind 2.1%
Returned 2.6% Returned 2.6%
Revoked Crime 4.8% Revoked Crime 4.8%
Early Termination 6.5% Early Termination 6.5%
Judicial Closure 6.8% Judicial Closure 6.8%
PTUP 7.0% PTUP 7.0%
Expired 30.8% Expired 30.8%
Revoked Technical 39.3% Revoked Technical 39.3%
137 137
138 138
Summary Summary
Among the findings in this report, two are particularly Among the findings in this report, two are particularly
noteworthy: first, the rapid growth rate of gang crime noteworthy: first, the rapid growth rate of gang crime
and, second, the extent to which gang crime is a factor and, second, the extent to which gang crime is a factor
in the state’s overall crime profile. By several in the state’s overall crime profile. By several
measures, gang related crime has been increasing measures, gang related crime has been increasing
dramatically in recent years. The rate of gang related dramatically in recent years. The rate of gang related
incidents increased 996% from 1998 to 2007, the rate of incidents increased 996% from 1998 to 2007, the rate of
gang violence increased 920% over the same time gang violence increased 920% over the same time
period, and gang related murders increased from none period, and gang related murders increased from none
reported in 1998 to a total of 21 in 2007. These reported in 1998 to a total of 21 in 2007. These
indications of growth in gang activity were also indications of growth in gang activity were also
supported by the 184% increase reported in inmate gang supported by the 184% increase reported in inmate gang
members from FY 00 to FY 08. members from FY 00 to FY 08.
While awareness of these increases in indicators of gang While awareness of these increases in indicators of gang
crime is important, it is equally important to understand crime is important, it is equally important to understand
them in the overall context of crime and violence. The them in the overall context of crime and violence. The
degree to which gang crime contributes to the statewide degree to which gang crime contributes to the statewide
volume of crime and violence is also important and volume of crime and violence is also important and
within this context, the findings reveal a somewhat within this context, the findings reveal a somewhat
different story. Although gang violence increased different story. Although gang violence increased
markedly, that increase represented a change from markedly, that increase represented a change from
0.09% in 1998 to 0.99% in 2007, or more simply put, 0.09% in 1998 to 0.99% in 2007, or more simply put,
gang violence’s share in overall violence rose from gang violence’s share in overall violence rose from
approximately 1 in 1,000 violent crimes in 1998 to approximately 1 in 1,000 violent crimes in 1998 to
almost 1 in 100 by 2007. Although this increase is large almost 1 in 100 by 2007. Although this increase is large
and real, it also defines gang violence as a minor and real, it also defines gang violence as a minor
contributor to the state’s overall violent crime picture. contributor to the state’s overall violent crime picture.
This is also true for gang related murders, although it is This is also true for gang related murders, although it is
important to note that by 2007, gang related murders important to note that by 2007, gang related murders
accounted for 5.9% of the murders committed that year. accounted for 5.9% of the murders committed that year.
139 139
The serious nature of violence posed by gang activity The serious nature of violence posed by gang activity
was also demonstrated by the behavior of gang members was also demonstrated by the behavior of gang members
in corrections and community corrections. Although in corrections and community corrections. Although
identified gang members represented a small portion of identified gang members represented a small portion of
these populations, 4.6% and 2.9% respectively in 2008, these populations, 4.6% and 2.9% respectively in 2008,
they constitute a problematic population. Inmate gang they constitute a problematic population. Inmate gang
members committed 3,438 violations in FY 08 of which members committed 3,438 violations in FY 08 of which
442 were violent. Gang members in community 442 were violent. Gang members in community
corrections were revoked at a rate of 44.1%. corrections were revoked at a rate of 44.1%.
Gang related crime is disproportionately the province of Gang related crime is disproportionately the province of
juveniles and young adults, males and minorities. The juveniles and young adults, males and minorities. The
rate of gang related violence among 15 and 16 year olds rate of gang related violence among 15 and 16 year olds
was not only the highest reported among any age group, was not only the highest reported among any age group,
it was 37% higher than the rate for 17 to 19 year olds, it was 37% higher than the rate for 17 to 19 year olds,
the next highest age group. Males made up 69.2% of the next highest age group. Males made up 69.2% of
gang violence victims with a victimization rate 144% gang violence victims with a victimization rate 144%
higher than the victimization rate for females. The gang higher than the victimization rate for females. The gang
violence victimization rate among Non-Whites was violence victimization rate among Non-Whites was
371% higher than the victimization rate for Whites. 371% higher than the victimization rate for Whites.
This pattern of disproportionate representation was also This pattern of disproportionate representation was also
found among gang offenders. The rate of violent gang found among gang offenders. The rate of violent gang
offenders was highest among the 15 and 16 year old age offenders was highest among the 15 and 16 year old age
group, with a rate that was also 37% higher than the group, with a rate that was also 37% higher than the
next highest age group, 17 to 19 year olds. The gang next highest age group, 17 to 19 year olds. The gang
violence offender rate for males was 486% higher than violence offender rate for males was 486% higher than
the rate for females. The gang violence offender rate the rate for females. The gang violence offender rate
was 11.6 times higher among Non-Whites than among was 11.6 times higher among Non-Whites than among
Whites. This pattern of disproportionate representation Whites. This pattern of disproportionate representation
by sex and race was also found among offenders under by sex and race was also found among offenders under
community correctional supervisions. Among community correctional supervisions. Among
community corrections offenders, 93.1% of identified community corrections offenders, 93.1% of identified
gang members were male and 65.5% were Non-White. gang members were male and 65.5% were Non-White.
140 140
Ethnicity was the one demographic factor for which Ethnicity was the one demographic factor for which
disproportionate representation was not found regarding disproportionate representation was not found regarding
gang violence victimization. The gang violence gang violence victimization. The gang violence
victimization rate of 2.4 for Hispanics was slightly victimization rate of 2.4 for Hispanics was slightly
lower than the victimization rate of 2.5 for Non- lower than the victimization rate of 2.5 for Non-
Hispanics. By contrast, the violent gang offender rate Hispanics. By contrast, the violent gang offender rate
for Non-Hispanics was 71.4% higher than the violent for Non-Hispanics was 71.4% higher than the violent
gang offender rate for Hispanics. gang offender rate for Hispanics.
Alcohol or illicit drug involvement was reported Alcohol or illicit drug involvement was reported
infrequently. Among incidents of gang violence, 4.8% infrequently. Among incidents of gang violence, 4.8%
were reported to have involved alcohol use by the were reported to have involved alcohol use by the
victim, 0.2% reported drug use by the victim and 0.2% victim, 0.2% reported drug use by the victim and 0.2%
reported alcohol and drug use by the victim. Slightly reported alcohol and drug use by the victim. Slightly
more substance use was reported among offenders in more substance use was reported among offenders in
violent gang incidents. Offender use of alcohol only violent gang incidents. Offender use of alcohol only
was reported in 5.2% of violent gang incidents, drug use was reported in 5.2% of violent gang incidents, drug use
only by an offender was reported in 1.4% of violent only by an offender was reported in 1.4% of violent
drug incidents and alcohol and drug use by an offender drug incidents and alcohol and drug use by an offender
was reported in 0.5% of violent drug incidents. was reported in 0.5% of violent drug incidents.
The weapon type most frequently reported in gang The weapon type most frequently reported in gang
violence was personal weapons (58.5%) such as hands, violence was personal weapons (58.5%) such as hands,
feet and fists. Firearm involvement was reported in feet and fists. Firearm involvement was reported in
23.2% of gang violence, with handguns accounting for 23.2% of gang violence, with handguns accounting for
70.4% of the firearms. The degree of firearm 70.4% of the firearms. The degree of firearm
involvement increased with the level of violence. involvement increased with the level of violence.
Among gang related murders, firearms accounted for Among gang related murders, firearms accounted for
94% of weapon involvement, with handguns making up 94% of weapon involvement, with handguns making up
63.9% of the firearms reported. 63.9% of the firearms reported.
Victims of gang violence usually knew, but did not have Victims of gang violence usually knew, but did not have
family, romantic or marital ties to the offender. family, romantic or marital ties to the offender.
Acquaintances accounted for 58.3% of all gang violence Acquaintances accounted for 58.3% of all gang violence
141 141
victims. Strangers accounted for 24.8% of the victims. Strangers accounted for 24.8% of the
victim/offender relationships in gang violence. victim/offender relationships in gang violence.
Family, romantic or marital relationships in gang Family, romantic or marital relationships in gang
violence were uncommon, accounting for 5.6%. violence were uncommon, accounting for 5.6%.
Gang violence was most often reported in private Gang violence was most often reported in private
residences such as homes, apartments or condominiums residences such as homes, apartments or condominiums
(37.7%) followed by highways, roads or streets (24.9%). (37.7%) followed by highways, roads or streets (24.9%).
Schools (kindergarten through 12th grade) ranked third Schools (kindergarten through 12th grade) ranked third
among gang violence locations, however, schools among gang violence locations, however, schools
accounted for only 12.9% of gang violence overall. accounted for only 12.9% of gang violence overall.
The geographic distribution of gang violence was not as The geographic distribution of gang violence was not as
heavily weighted towards the more populous, urban heavily weighted towards the more populous, urban
counties, as one might expect. Although Richland counties, as one might expect. Although Richland
County reported more gang violence than any other County reported more gang violence than any other
county in 2007, it was followed by Florence and county in 2007, it was followed by Florence and
Darlington counties, two mid-sized counties. Colleton, Darlington counties, two mid-sized counties. Colleton,
a small, suburban/rural county had the highest gang a small, suburban/rural county had the highest gang
violence rate among the counties, followed by Chester violence rate among the counties, followed by Chester
and Darlington counties. Different patterns were found and Darlington counties. Different patterns were found
looking at inmates and gang members under community looking at inmates and gang members under community
correctional supervision. Among inmates, Richland, correctional supervision. Among inmates, Richland,
Charleston, Greenville and Spartanburg ranked one Charleston, Greenville and Spartanburg ranked one
through four in terms of the number of gang members through four in terms of the number of gang members
respectively; similarly among community correctional respectively; similarly among community correctional
offenders Greenville, Richland, Charleston and offenders Greenville, Richland, Charleston and
Spartanburg counties ranked one through four. Those Spartanburg counties ranked one through four. Those
findings are reasonably in line with populations. findings are reasonably in line with populations.
However, the highest gang inmate rates were reported However, the highest gang inmate rates were reported
by Bamberg, Lee and Florence counties, while by Bamberg, Lee and Florence counties, while
Allendale, Hampton and Jasper counties, had the highest Allendale, Hampton and Jasper counties, had the highest
rates for community corrections offenders. These rates for community corrections offenders. These
findings are consistent with the results of a 2005 survey findings are consistent with the results of a 2005 survey
142 142
of South Carolina law enforcement agencies which of South Carolina law enforcement agencies which
found law enforcement agencies perceiving an found law enforcement agencies perceiving an
emergence of gang presence and activity in rural and emergence of gang presence and activity in rural and
suburban communities (Rojek J., et. al., 2005). It is suburban communities (Rojek J., et. al., 2005). It is
also important to note that some of the numbers of also important to note that some of the numbers of
incidents and identified gang members are small and incidents and identified gang members are small and
that relatively small changes could result in large that relatively small changes could result in large
increases or decreases. increases or decreases.
So to answer the question (How Much, How Bad?) So to answer the question (How Much, How Bad?)
posed in the title: not very much but what we’ve got is posed in the title: not very much but what we’ve got is
pretty bad. The volume of gang crime is relatively pretty bad. The volume of gang crime is relatively
small; however given the violent nature of gang crime, small; however given the violent nature of gang crime,
and being particularly mindful of the increase in gang and being particularly mindful of the increase in gang
related murders, it must be viewed as a very serious related murders, it must be viewed as a very serious
matter. The rate of increase in gang crime is not matter. The rate of increase in gang crime is not
particularly alarming when viewed within the statewide particularly alarming when viewed within the statewide
context of the volume of violent crime, but continuation context of the volume of violent crime, but continuation
of the current rate of increase would be very alarming of the current rate of increase would be very alarming
indeed and would have serious public safety indeed and would have serious public safety
consequences. Understanding the problem of gang consequences. Understanding the problem of gang
crime in South Carolina will require not only additional crime in South Carolina will require not only additional
street level research and documentation concerning the street level research and documentation concerning the
nature of gang practices and activities in South Carolina, nature of gang practices and activities in South Carolina,
but ongoing secondary data analysis of the nature and but ongoing secondary data analysis of the nature and
extent of gang violence. extent of gang violence.
143 143
144 144
Sources Sources
Published Sources: Published Sources:
Rojek, Jeff; Smith, M.; Kaminski, R.; Scheer, C. Rojek, Jeff; Smith, M.; Kaminski, R.; Scheer, C.
South Carolina Gang Survey 2005, University of South South Carolina Gang Survey 2005, University of South
Carolina, 2005. http://www.cas.sc.edu/crju/sclec.html. Carolina, 2005. http://www.cas.sc.edu/crju/sclec.html.
South Carolina Department of Corrections, Statistical South Carolina Department of Corrections, Statistical
Reports. http://www.doc.sc.gov/research/statistics.jsp Reports. http://www.doc.sc.gov/research/statistics.jsp
Unpublished Sources: Unpublished Sources:
South Carolina Budget & Control Board, Office of South Carolina Budget & Control Board, Office of
Research and Statistics. Population estimates. Research and Statistics. Population estimates.
South Carolina Department of Corrections. South Carolina Department of Corrections.

Unpublished report. Unpublished report.
South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and
Pardon Services. Unpublished data files. Pardon Services. Unpublished data files.
State Law Enforcement Division. South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division. South Carolina
Incident Based Reporting System data files. Incident Based Reporting System data files.
145 145

2009 Gang Report South Carolina - How Much How Bad?

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2009 Gang Report South Carolina - How Much How Bad?

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Gangs and Crime Gangs and Crime

in South Carolina: in South Carolina:

How Much, How Bad? How Much, How Bad?

Prepared by: Prepared by:

Office of Justice Programs Office of Justice Programs

Statistical Analysis Center Statistical Analysis Center

Editor: Rob McManus Editor: Rob McManus

MEASURING GANG ACTIVITY .........................3 MEASURING GANG ACTIVITY .........................3

GANG RELATED CRIME .....................................9 GANG RELATED CRIME .....................................9

GANG RELATED MURDER...............................67 GANG RELATED MURDER...............................67

GANGS IN PRISON ...........................................107 GANGS IN PRISON ...........................................107

GANGS IN COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS....123 GANGS IN COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS....123

Calculating rates: Calculating rates:

GANG RELATED CRIMINAL INCIDENTS GANG RELATED CRIMINAL INCIDENTS

1998 105 0.27 1998 105 0.27

Rate per 10,000

GANG INCIDENTS GANG INCIDENTS

Offense Number Percent Offense Number Percent

Aggravated Assault 1,715 32.7% Aggravated Assault 1,715 32.7%

Kidnapping 0.4% Kidnapping 0.4%

Other 0.5% Other 0.5%

Homicide 0.9% Homicide 0.9%

Drug Laws 1.0% Drug Laws 1.0%

Weapon Laws 1.1% Weapon Laws 1.1%

Sexual Violence 1.5% Sexual Violence 1.5%

Property Crimes 2.1% Property Crimes 2.1%

Robbery 8.2% Robbery 8.2%

Vandalism 8.2% Vandalism 8.2%

Intimidation 13.5% Intimidation 13.5%

Simple Assault 29.9% Simple Assault 29.9%

Aggravated Assault 32.7% Aggravated Assault 32.7%

GANG VIOLENCE BY OFFENSE GANG VIOLENCE BY OFFENSE

Offense Number Percent Offense Number Percent

Aggravated Assault 2,561 40.1% Aggravated Assault 2,561 40.1%

Negligent Homicide 0.0% Negligent Homicide 0.0%

Murder 0.8% Murder 0.8%

Kidnapping 1.2% Kidnapping 1.2%

Sexual Violence 1.4% Sexual Violence 1.4%

Robbery 9.6% Robbery 9.6%

Intimidation 13.9% Intimidation 13.9%

Simple Assault 33.0% Simple Assault 33.0%

Aggravated Assault 40.1% Aggravated Assault 40.1%

GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS GANG VIOLENCE VICTIMS

1998 117 0.30 1998 117 0.30

Note: Unit of count – victims. Note: Unit of count – victims.

Rate per 10,000

GANG VIOLENCE GANG VIOLENCE

1998 117 0.30 0.09% 1998 117 0.30 0.09%

Percent of Total Violence

GANG VIOLENCE BY MONTH GANG VIOLENCE BY MONTH

Month Number Percent Month Number Percent

January 476 7.5% January 476 7.5%

Percent of Gang Violence

Sunday 867 13.7% Sunday 867 13.7%

Note: Unit of count – victims. Note: Unit of count – victims.

Percent of Gang Violence

GANG VIOLENCE BY TIME OF DAY GANG VIOLENCE BY TIME OF DAY

Time of Day Number Percent Time of Day Number Percent

Midnight 353 5.6% Midnight 353 5.6%

Percent of Gang Violence

GANG VIOLENCE BY TIME OF DAY GANG VIOLENCE BY TIME OF DAY

Time of Day Number Percent Time of Day Number Percent

Midnight - 2:59 828 13.2% Midnight - 2:59 828 13.2%