One of the most interesting aspects of the involvement of youth gangs in drug trafficking relates to the role of culture in reshaping narco-trafficking as a socially tolerable activity. In Mexico, for example, as noted by Bailey, the drug-trafficking organizations recruit young men and women in part through their influence on music, popular entertainment, and other aspects of culture that appeals to youth. Youth are particularly vulnerable to the influence of popular entertainment and music, including those aspects of culture that emphasize rebellion and thrill-seeking, and thus the drug gangs can recruit through culture to turn an illegal activity into a socially appealing activity for youth.
The placement of the youth gangs in the drug trafficking hierarchy of organized crime reflects their youth and corresponding lack of experience. As Bailey notes, the youth gangs involved in drug-trafficking serve at the neighborhood level of operations, the gamma groups, reflecting the relative inexperience of youth gang leaders and their reliance on the more sophisticated knowledge, skills, and abilities of older leaders, members, and groups. Youth are encouraged to work their way through the ranks as they develop their knowledge, skills, and abilities at the gamma level.
The gamma …show more content…
Law enforcement and political corruption sends the message to youth that drug trafficking is not only socially tolerated but also legally tolerated by those institutions and individuals responsible for interdiction. Youth in Central America, including Panama, have observed their elders in politics and law enforcement cooperating with the drug gangs, which makes it more likely than not that more youth in these countries will choose drug trafficking as a socioeconomic
The placement of the youth gangs in the drug trafficking hierarchy of organized crime reflects their youth and corresponding lack of experience. As Bailey notes, the youth gangs involved in drug-trafficking serve at the neighborhood level of operations, the gamma groups, reflecting the relative inexperience of youth gang leaders and their reliance on the more sophisticated knowledge, skills, and abilities of older leaders, members, and groups. Youth are encouraged to work their way through the ranks as they develop their knowledge, skills, and abilities at the gamma level.
The gamma …show more content…
Law enforcement and political corruption sends the message to youth that drug trafficking is not only socially tolerated but also legally tolerated by those institutions and individuals responsible for interdiction. Youth in Central America, including Panama, have observed their elders in politics and law enforcement cooperating with the drug gangs, which makes it more likely than not that more youth in these countries will choose drug trafficking as a socioeconomic