NCJ Number
189963
Journal
Journal of Gang Research Volume: 8 Issue: 4 Dated: Summer 2001 Pages: 57-76
Date Published
2001
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This article contains a profile and history of what began as a Chicago inner-city street gang and has spread to more than 40 Chicago suburbs and 22 other States.
Abstract
The "Satan's Disciples" have existed for over 25 years as a predominantly Hispanic gang originating in Chicago, IL. It typifies many of the older traditional Chicago-based gangs in that it is basically an adult-run criminal enterprise that makes extensive use of juveniles in its drug distribution operations. The article discusses the Satan's Disciples' aliases, ethnic composition, allies, mortal enemies, Day of Celebration, influence from the Gangster Disciple tradition, symbols, and what is special about the gang. The most special characteristic of the gang is its ability to spread quietly and rapidly. Their dispersion has been the result of the "familial gang transplant phenomenon" (families moving to get their children away from the gang and unwittingly taking the gang culture with them to a new neighborhood), and the aggressive narco-violent style of establishing new gang chapters and factions. The Satan's Disciples are pro-business, and conduct their operations according to constitutions and bylaws similar to those of legitimate enterprises. Satan's Disciples are in all counties surrounding the Chicago area, have been reported operating in nearly 40 other Illinois cities, and have been noted in 22 other States. Figures, appendix, glossary