Which type of gang is classified as a non-traditional gang?

Non-traditional or hybrid gangs are categorized based on their structure, membership, and activities that differ from traditional organized gang practices. Unlike traditional gangs, which typically have a clear hierarchical structure, specific territories, and defined roles, non-traditional gangs can be more fluid and adaptable in their operations. They often emerge in culturally diverse environments and may include members from various backgrounds, making them less defined by specific identity markers, such as ethnicity or geography.

These hybrid gangs may engage in criminal activities but are not as entrenched in organized crime as traditional gangs. They can form quickly, often influenced by social networks or peer group dynamics, and might not maintain a permanent membership. This flexibility allows them to respond rapidly to shifting social landscapes or law enforcement pressures, setting them apart from more traditional gang structures.

In contrast, traditional and Hispanic gangs, criminal enterprise gangs, and prison gangs each have distinct characteristics that define their operations and structures, making them traditional by nature. Traditional gangs typically adhere to longstanding norms, while criminal enterprises focus on organized crime for profit, and prison gangs are established primarily within correctional facilities with a focus on control and power.