Maturity Levels for Outlaw Groups: The Case of Hells Angels MC
Journal article, Peer reviewed
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Date
2016Metadata
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- Scientific articles [2189]
Abstract
McIntosh (2009) argues that from relatively humble
beginnings, outlaw motorcycle gangs, such as the Hells Angels,
Outlaws, Bandidos, Pagans, Sons of Silence, Mongols, Coffin
Cheaters, Black Pistons and others have evolved into sophisticated
organized crime syndicates responsible for a large portion of the
global illicit drug and weapons trades. This evolvement into
sophisticated organizations can be studied in terms of maturity
levels over time. By application of stages of growth models with
distinct characteristics of each maturity level, findings may suggest
that different outlaw groups can be classified into different maturity
levels.
Maturity models such as the one for Hells Angels introduced
in this article can serve several important purposes. First, general
insights into evolution over time can be generated and
communicated to decision-makers in society. Second, contingent
approach to law enforcement implies that the police and other
government agencies can apply appropriate measures depending on
the maturity level of a specific outlaw motorcycle gang. Thus, law
enforcement can distinguish approaches for fighting non-mature
gangs versus mature gangs. By categorizing an organization
according to its maturity level, appropriate strategies to fight it can
be identified. Third, the evolution of gangs over time provides
insights into the mechanisms that make gangs more and more
dangerous and threatening to society.
Description
This is the journal's final, accepted and refereed version of the article. The publication is available at http://www.pakistansocietyofcriminology.com/