The state of Tennessee, which is well-known for its thriving music culture and picturesque scenery, is also home to a concerning increase in the number of gang members. Gangs in this state are involved in a wide range of illegal activities, including as the distribution of illegal drugs, the commission of robberies, the commission of violent attacks, and the smuggling of weapons. Following is a list of the five most violent gangs that are currently active in the state of Tennessee.
The Disciples of Gangsters
In addition to having its roots in Chicago, the Gangster Disciples have also created a significant presence in Tennessee, particularly in the cities of Memphis and Nashville. The gang in question is extremely well-organized, as evidenced by its hierarchical structure and comprehensive code of conduct. Their criminal activities include a wide range of illegal activities, including the trafficking of drugs and weapons, as well as violent crimes such as robbery and murder.
The Gangster Disciples are notorious for their merciless enforcement of their rules and territory, as well as their dedication to the colors blue and black. They are also known for their six-point star insignia. In both urban and suburban regions around the state, they pose a severe hazard to residents.
The Vice Lords
An further gang based in Chicago, the Vice Lords, have extended their sphere of influence into the state of Tennessee throughout the course of time. Although they are mostly active in Memphis, they also have a presence in a number of smaller towns and rural locations. The Vice Lords are involved in activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, and violent crimes. It is reported that their membership number is in the thousands.
A number of distinguishing characteristics of the gang include the use of the colors gold and black, as well as emblems such as the top hat and the cane. Due to the fact that they frequently target vulnerable youngsters in their recruiting efforts, they continue to be a problem for local law enforcement.
A brotherhood of Aryans
There is a growing presence of the Aryan Brotherhood, a prison gang that adheres to white supremacist ideology, in the jail system of Tennessee as well as in rural communities. In addition to engaging in activities such as drug trafficking, organized crime, and extortion both within and outside of correctional facilities, the Aryan Brotherhood is notorious for the brutal techniques and racial philosophy that they employ.
White nationalist emblems, such as swastikas, lightning bolts, and other symbols, are tattooed on the bodies of their adherents, making them easily recognized. This gang is a serious issue for law enforcement because of the dangerous combination of ideas that are motivated by hatred and criminal activity that they engage in.
A bloody
A gang that has its origins in Los Angeles, known as the Bloods, has expanded their territory into the state of Tennessee. Chattanooga, Nashville, and Memphis are two of the cities in which they are very active. The Bloods are involved in the distribution of drugs, the trafficking of weapons, and acts of violence, and they frequently come into conflict with antagonistic gangs such as the Crips.
They are clearly identifiable due to their trademark red hue and hand signs; but, their decentralized organization allows for the establishment of smaller, more localized factions, which makes it more difficult to track them down and dismantle them.
Snipers
Similar to the Bloods, the Crips were founded in Los Angeles, but they have since acquired a strong presence in the state of Tennessee. The operations of this gang include the trafficking of illegal substances, theft, and violent assaults. It is active in urban centers such as Memphis and Nashville, and it is involved in a wide variety of criminal activities.
In addition to their signature hand signals, the Crips are recognized for their signature blue clothing. The competition between the Crips and the Bloods continues to be a source of violent clashes in the state of Tennessee, frequently putting innocent bystanders in danger.
Final Thoughts
These gangs are becoming more prevalent in Tennessee, which poses a significant risk to the safety of communities located throughout the state. The perpetration of violent crimes and other illegal actions by these individuals contributes to the instability of neighborhoods and hinders efforts to establish a secure environment.
A multi-pronged strategy is required in order to combat the influence of gangs. This strategy should include greater law enforcement presence, community engagement, and support services for adolescents who are at risk. The state of Tennessee has the ability to work toward lowering the recruitment of gang members and restoring peace to communities that have been harmed by gangs by offering options for job, education, and mentoring.
