Tennessee, known for its rich music culture and scenic landscapes, is also facing a rising gang crisis. These gangs are involved in drug trafficking, robbery, violent attacks, and weapons smuggling. Here are the five most dangerous gangs currently active in the state.
Gangster Disciples
Originally from Chicago, the Gangster Disciples have built a strong presence in Tennessee, especially in Memphis and Nashville. They are highly organized, with a structured hierarchy and strict code of conduct. Their crimes include drug and weapons trafficking, as well as violent offenses like robbery and murder.
The Gangster Disciples enforce their rules with extreme violence and are known for their blue and black colors and six-point star symbol. They pose a major threat in both urban and suburban areas.
Vice Lords
The Vice Lords, another Chicago-based gang, have expanded into Tennessee over time. While mainly active in Memphis, they also operate in smaller towns and rural areas. Their criminal activities include drug trafficking, extortion, and violent crimes, with membership numbering in the thousands.
The gang is recognized by its gold and black colors, along with symbols like the top hat and cane. They often recruit vulnerable youth, making them a significant challenge for law enforcement.
Aryan Brotherhood
The Aryan Brotherhood, a white supremacist prison gang, is growing in Tennessee’s prison system and rural communities. They are involved in drug trafficking, organized crime, and extortion both inside and outside of correctional facilities.
Members are easily identified by tattoos featuring white nationalist symbols like swastikas and lightning bolts. The combination of extremist ideology and criminal activity makes this gang a serious law enforcement concern.
Bloods
Originally from Los Angeles, the Bloods have expanded into Tennessee, with strongholds in Chattanooga, Nashville, and Memphis. Their activities include drug distribution, weapons trafficking, and violent attacks, often clashing with rival gangs like the Crips.
The Bloods are known for their red colors and hand signs. Their decentralized structure allows smaller, localized factions to emerge, making them harder to track and dismantle.
Crips
Like the Bloods, the Crips originated in Los Angeles but have established a strong presence in Tennessee. They engage in drug trafficking, theft, and violent assaults, particularly in Memphis and Nashville.
Crips members are recognized by their blue clothing and hand signals. Their ongoing rivalry with the Bloods fuels violent conflicts, often putting innocent people in danger.
The Growing Threat
These gangs are becoming more active in Tennessee, posing a serious risk to communities statewide. Their violent crimes and illegal activities contribute to neighborhood instability and hinder public safety efforts.
Combating gang influence requires a multi-faceted approach, including increased law enforcement, community engagement, and support for at-risk youth. By providing job opportunities, education, and mentorship, Tennessee can work to reduce gang recruitment and restore safety in affected communities.
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