West Virginia is not immune to the rise of gang-related activity, despite the fact that it is recognized for its appalachian landscapes that are breathtaking and its communities that are quite near to one another. The state’s economic difficulties, combined with its placement along key drug trafficking routes, have resulted in the state being a headquarters for criminal groups. The areas that these gangs enter are significantly impacted as a result of the activities that they participate in, which include drug trafficking, extortion, robbery, and violence. These are the five most violent gangs that are currently operating in the state of West Virginia.
A bloody
The Bloods are a countrywide gang that has built a stronghold in various sections of West Virginia, particularly in places such as Charleston and Huntington. The Bloods have their roots in Los Angeles, but they have spread throughout the country. The Bloods are notorious for their use of red apparel and insignia, and they are heavily involved in the distribution of illegal drugs, mainly heroin and fentanyl, which have caused widespread devastation in the areas they have impacted throughout the opioid crisis. They also commit violent crimes, such as armed robberies and assaults, in order to keep control over the territory that they dominate.
A brotherhood of Aryans
In both rural and urban areas of West Virginia, the Aryan Brotherhood, a prison gang that adheres to white supremacist ideology, has increased its sphere of influence. This criminal organization is known for its involvement in the distribution of drugs, primarily methamphetamine, and it works both within and outside of penal institutional settings. When it comes to law enforcement, they are one of the most dreaded criminal organizations in the region due to their ruthless enforcement tactics, which include violence and intimidation.
The Disciples of Gangsters
Although they have their origins in Chicago, the Gangster Disciples have successfully found their way into the criminal underworld of West Virginia. Their role in the trafficking of drugs and weapons, as well as their hierarchical organization, have earned them a reputation for being notorious. The gang has been active in cities such as Martinsburg and Parkersburg, where they have established distribution networks and recruited new members throughout their criminal activities. It is common practice to resort to violence, including shootings, in order to settle disagreements or remove competitors.
Motorcycle Club for Pagans
West Virginia is home to a significant number of members of the Pagans Motorcycle Club, which was established on the East Coast. The Pagans are a notable outlaw biker gang that is notorious for its involvement in organized crime, which includes many illicit activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, and the selling of illegal weapons. It is not uncommon for them to engage in violent confrontations with rival biker gangs, such as the Hells Angels, when they pursue territory issues. This is especially true in places like Wheeling and Morgantown, where the Pagans are most active.
MS.-13
MS-13 has begun to build a presence in West Virginia, leveraging on the state’s transportation routes for the purpose of narcotics and human trafficking. This is despite the fact that MS-13 is more prevalent in larger states. In the region, the presence of MS-13, which is notorious for its severe brutality and the use of machetes, is becoming an increasing source of concern for law officials. The recruitment of vulnerable youth and the exploitation of immigrant populations are frequently at the core of their activities.
Final Thoughts
Local communities in West Virginia are facing an increasing danger from gangs, which poses a threat to their safety and well-being. Despite the fact that their presence is not as extensive as it is in larger states, it is nonetheless concerning considering the growth in the number of deaths and violent crimes that are associated to drug use. An approach that incorporates a number of different strategies is necessary in order to effectively address this problem. These strategies include the efforts of law enforcement to destroy gang networks and community programs that offer persons who are at risk opportunity to build a better future. It is essential to raise awareness and work together in order to reduce the influence of these potentially harmful organizations.
