MS-13 as a Growing Problem in the United States

Originating in the Salvadors, Mara Salvatrucha, better known as MS-13, has expanded it’s already vast group into the United States. MS-13 is growing at an alarmingly exponential rate. As a result, MS-13 has been termed the fastest growing gang in America. As in most gangs, once a member has been inducted to MS-13, they are in it for the remainder of their lives. Recruitment can begin with even small children. This fact alone is nerve wracking because children sometimes do not know what they are getting themselves into and the new lifestyle bestowed unto them will be a lifetime dedication. If a member decided to flee the gang to better their own lives, the gang would see this action as betrayal and seek punishment for the departed and possibly the departed’s family.
Besides being the fastest growing gang, Mara Salvatrucha is also one of the most dangerous. Drug trafficking, rape and car thefts are all characteristics of the Mara Salvatrucha crime. However, it is better known for its large number of assaults, batteries, and murders which are so gruesome that MS-13 has earned a name as bloodthirsty.With the crime rates Mara Salvatrucha has produced, society has had no choice but to recognize it as an egregious problem. However, not much is being done to stop it. About half of the attention MS-13 should be receiving from police officers and the like have been more focused on the war and recent terrorist attacks. As the gang grows, leaders are trying to make Mara Salvatrucha more of a centralized power. As of right now though, there is no centralized power. This means all the various “cliques” must be controlled individually, which is more difficult for law enforcement. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/7244879/site/newsweek/ Mindy Collins