With the recent events in New Orleans, Know Gangs has been receiving a lot of requests from both the media and members of the military for more information about what gangs are operating within the New Orleans region.

Although the closest we have been to New Orleans was Biloxi for a meeting sponsored by the G.R.E.A.T. Program, here is the list of gangs we have identified in the New Orleans region;

Bloods
Bloods have been documented throughout the region. Factions of both the East Coast Bloods - United Blood Nation (UBN) and the LA-based faction operate within the area. Generally the UBN is more organized and structured, utilizing their own code to communicate messages between members through a strong leadership structure. Blood members are involved in primarily drug distribution in multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine, heroin and marijuana. Predominately an African-American gang, but will have members of different races. Possible identifiers include the color red, the number 5, UBN, 5-point star or the word Bloods.

Crips
Like the Bloods, the Crips are also present throughout the South. Crips sets in this region operate autonomously and are not formally affiliated with LA-based Crips. Crips in the region have been influenced by both LA-based Crips and the Chicago-based Gangster Disciples. Crips may use a combination of signs and symbols borrowed from the Gangster Disciples including using the symbols of the pitchfork (facing up) and the six-pointed star. Crips are also heavily involved in the distribution of cocaine, marijuana, heroin, methamphetamine, and PCP. Predominately an African-American gang, but will have members of different races. Possible identifiers include the color blue, the number 6, 6-point star or the words Crips or GD.

Gangster Disciples
Gangster Disciples (GD) transport and distribute multi-kilogram quantities of powdered and crack cocaine and multi-pound quantities of marijuana throughout the region. It appears that Gangster Disciples in the region operate independently of the Chicago-based Gangster Disciples. Almost 40 percent of investigators in the Southern region reported the presence of the Gangster Disciples. Predominately an African-American gang, but will have members of different races. Possible identifiers include the color blue, the number 6, 6-point star or the word Crips or GD.

Although there are numerous other gangs that have been identified in the area such as the Bandidos, Latin Kings, Surenos and more, the above three gangs seem to be the largest in the area.

Our hearts and prayers go to the flood victims and the many professionals who have left their own families to go and render assistance.

Know Gangs