There are five major prison gangs known as "Traditional Prison Gangs." These gangs formed in the 1960's and 1970's in the California corrections system and were formed originally by inmates as a means to protect themselves from other groups and inmate predators. Joining this list of gangs is a group known as the "Ñetas", which originated in the Puerto Rico prison system and has spread to the United States. This group may be found in prison systems (primarily, the East Coast) that have a Puerto Rican or Hispanic inmate population.
These gangs are known for their viciousness and violence and use this reputation to maintain power and control over other inmates.
The links below offer the viewer different perspectives on the history and backgrounds of the "traditional" prison gangs.
Traditional Prison Gangs
Additional Prison Gang Information
Locked Down - Prison Gangs in Supermax
The supreme power structure of the Nuestra Familia
Federal Bureau of Prisons
FBI Report - Freedom of Information
Other Significant Prison Gangs
Foreign Prison Gang Problems
Prison gangs are not unique to the United States. View the link below for information about South African prison gangs.
Gangs Behind Bars - an Analysis
Pelican Bay - The Gang Prison
ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS ATTEMPTS TO CURB PRISON VIOLENCE – Sends prison gang leaders to other states to isolate them. Will it work? Read the article below.
Robert Walker
Telephone - 803-345-2600
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