How The MS-13 Gang Actually Works | How Crime Works | Insider
Insider・18 minutes read
Alex Sanchez's involvement with MS13 led to a life of crime, violence, and prison time, with his experiences highlighting the brutality and challenges faced within the gang. Despite deportation and legal issues, individuals like Alex strive to leave behind gang life, with organizations like Homies Unidos offering support and opportunities for a fresh start.
Insights
- Alex Sanchez's journey from gang involvement to seeking a new life symbolized by tattoo removal highlights the personal struggles and transformations individuals undergo when leaving behind a life of violence and crime.
- The disproportionate focus on MS13 by law enforcement and media, influenced by political rhetoric, sheds light on the complex dynamics of gang-related issues, where attention and resources may not align with the actual scale of the problem, potentially impacting the effectiveness of interventions and prevention strategies.
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Recent questions
What is the initiation process for MS13?
The initiation process for MS13 involves a violent beating known as "jumping in" by four or more people. This brutal act is meant to test the new member's loyalty and commitment to the gang, as well as to instill fear and establish a sense of belonging within the group.
What led to the escalation of violence between MS13 and 18th Street?
The rivalry between MS13 and 18th Street escalated in the '90s due to various factors, including territorial disputes, power struggles, and retaliation for past conflicts. This escalation led to increased violence and deaths as both gangs sought to assert dominance and control over their respective territories.
How did the influx of weapons impact MS13's choice of weaponry?
In the mid-80s, an influx of weapons like the uzi and AK-47 led MS13 to resort to using machetes due to a lack of funds to acquire firearms. This shift in weaponry highlighted the gang's resourcefulness and adaptability in the face of challenges, as well as their willingness to use whatever means necessary to carry out acts of violence.
What are some challenges faced by former gang members seeking to leave that lifestyle?
Former gang members often face numerous challenges when trying to leave that lifestyle behind, including social stigma, lack of support networks, and the constant threat of retaliation from their former associates. Despite these obstacles, many individuals strive to transition away from gang life by seeking education, pursuing entrepreneurship, or turning to organizations like Homies Unidos for guidance and support.
Why does MS13 receive more media attention compared to other gangs like the Crips and Bloods?
MS13 receives more media attention compared to other gangs like the Crips and Bloods due to the President's focus on them and the immigration rhetoric surrounding the gang. This heightened visibility has led to increased law enforcement attention towards MS13, as they are often portrayed as a symbol of illegal immigration and criminal activity. In contrast, larger gangs like the Crips and Bloods, consisting of US citizens, receive less coverage despite their significant impact on communities.
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Summary
00:00
Gang life, violence, and redemption: Alex's story.
- Alex Sanchez was involved with MS13, experiencing violence and crime, leading to prison time and being shot at.
- He came to the United States in 1979, facing culture shock and clashing with other ethnic groups, especially Mexicans.
- Initiation into MS13 involves a beating known as "jumping in" by four or more people.
- Alex joined the Normandy local click for protection, which later led to vengeance after a friend's death.
- In the mid-80s, an influx of weapons like the uzi and AK-47 led MS13 to use machetes due to lack of funds.
- Alex got arrested for carrying a concealed weapon, preventing a potential shooting incident.
- He underwent tattoo removal, symbolizing a change from gang life, despite initial feelings of cowardice.
- MS13's rivalry with 18th Street escalated in the '90s, leading to increased violence and deaths.
- Despite temporary truces, violence among Latino gangs persisted post-1993, with severe consequences for rule-breakers.
- Alex's deportation to El Salvador exposed him to extreme violence, leading to a harrowing escape back to the US.
18:57
Immigration, Gangs, and Redemption: A Complex Journey
- The individual faced arrest and deportation by immigration authorities, leading to a scandal regarding the misuse of immigration laws by the police to eliminate unwanted individuals. Despite winning political asylum in 2002, ongoing legal issues persisted, including a federal RICO case in 2009 that was eventually dismissed.
- The MS13 gang has been heavily publicized, particularly due to the President's focus on them, leading to increased law enforcement attention. This gang is targeted due to immigration rhetoric, while other larger gangs like the Crips and Bloods receive less coverage as they consist of US citizens, unlike MS13.
- Former gang members often seek to leave that lifestyle behind, with some becoming pastors or pursuing education and entrepreneurship. The organization Homies Unidos aims to reduce gang violence and support individuals in transitioning away from gang life, despite facing financial challenges as a nonprofit.
