What are prison gangs?
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), "Prison gangs are criminal organizations that originated within the penal system and operate within correctional facilities throughout the United states, although released members may be operating on the street. Prison gangs are also self-perpetuating criminal entities that can continue their criminal operations outside the confines of the penal system."
Structure of a Prison Gang
The leaders of the prison gangs are distinguishable from the their followers. They show physical prowess, seniority, commission of violent acts and leadership qualities that elevate them through the gang's hierarchy. There are some prison gangs that do not have a sole leader but a committee or a council. These committees or councils provide their gangs with leadership and direction when there is not a single strong leader. (Camp & Camp, 1985). A prison gang's leader usually has a relatively short tenure, 2 years. Usually the successor is usually determined by a meeting of the minds of the membership or the strongest of the remaining members takes over by the force of their personality (Camp & Camp, 1985).
"Blood in, Blood out"
The term "blood in, blood out" is commonly seen with gangs. In order to be accepted into the gang, one is usually "jumped in" or beaten, therefore spilling their own blood ("blood in"). The "blood out" portion of the term refers to the only way the gang member is able to be let go from the gang and that is by being beaten which usually ends in death. Some prison gangs only allow their members to leave the gang in "a pine box".