Comparing the Criminal Behavior of Youth Gangs and At-Risk Youths

Youth gang-related crime has been growing for years, but little data existed about the extent and precise nature of crimes committed by gang members. NIJ Research in Brief, Comparing the Criminal Behavior of Youth Gangs and At-Risk Youths, presents a comparative study of the criminal behavior of gang members and nongang at-risk youths in three urban and suburban communities. The findings suggest gang membership increases the likelihood and frequency that members will commit serious and violent crimes.