Georgia has a serious gang problem, with over 35,000 identified members and an expected rise to over 50,000 by year-end. These gangs are behind most violent and property crimes in the state and have expanded their reach beyond Georgia.
Here are five of the most violent gangs operating in Georgia:
MS-13
MS-13, or Mara Salvatrucha, is one of the world’s most dangerous gangs, with origins in El Salvador and Los Angeles. The gang is active in Atlanta, engaging in drug trafficking, extortion, murder, and human smuggling.
They are known for their extreme brutality, including beheadings, dismemberment, and torture. MS-13 has been tied to high-profile murders in Georgia, such as the 2017 killing of a 14-year-old girl in Marietta.
Ghost Face Gangsters
Ghost Face Gangsters is a white supremacist prison gang founded in Georgia in the late 1990s. With over 2,000 members inside and outside prisons, they have expanded into Alabama, Florida, and Tennessee.
They are involved in drug trafficking, robbery, assault, and murder. The gang is infamous for its violence, including attacks on law enforcement officers, such as the 2018 shooting of two deputies.
Bloods
The Bloods, an African American street gang, originated in Los Angeles in the 1970s. Several factions operate in Georgia, mainly in Atlanta. They engage in drug trafficking, robbery, extortion, and murder.
The Bloods have a long-standing feud with the Crips and use red colors and a five-pointed star as their symbols.
Crips
The Crips, another African American street gang, started in Los Angeles in the 1960s. They have factions in Georgia, particularly in Atlanta, and are involved in drug trafficking, robbery, extortion, and murder.
The Crips are known for their rivalry with the Bloods and use blue colors and a six-pointed star as their insignia.
Young Slime Life
Young Slime Life (YSL) is an Atlanta-based street gang linked to rapper Young Thug. While the group has a strong influence in the music industry, producing artists like Gunna and Lil Baby, they are also involved in violent crimes such as shootings, robberies, and killings.
YSL has a history of conflicts with rival groups like Rich Gang. In May 2022, Young Thug and Gunna were among 28 individuals arrested in a major gang indictment for racketeering, drug trafficking, and murder.
Georgia’s gang problem continues to grow, with MS-13, Ghost Face Gangsters, Bloods, Crips, and Young Slime Life contributing to rising violence. Authorities are working to curb these threats, but public awareness and preventive actions are essential.
Stay updated on crime trends—visit our website for more insights.
Disclaimer: Our team has meticulously fact-checked this article to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misinformation. We are committed to providing honest, reliable, and trustworthy content for our readers.
