The Troubling Trend of Police Gangs

The Troubling Trend of Police Gangs

When you think of gangs, you likely picture criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking, violence, and illegal activities. But a disturbing trend has emerged – police officers across the country forming their own gang-like groups within their departments. These so-called “police gangs” undermine public trust and perpetuate a culture of brutality and lawlessness that goes against everything law enforcement should stand for.

Inked With Hatred and Racism

One of the most visible signs of these police gangs are their matching tattoos. From the Executioners in Los Angeles to the Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association “Rego Park Crew” in New York City, these groups brand themselves with ink depicting guns, skulls, and other intimidating symbols. Some of these tattoos have also incorporated blatantly racist imagery like Nazi symbols and offensive caricatures.In Oakland, members of “The Riders” police gang were charged with planting evidence, making false arrests, and brutally beating suspects. Their matching masks and skull tattoos became a terrifying symbol of corruption and abuse of power within the department.

A Brotherhood of Silence and Retaliation

Beyond the tattoos, these police gangs create an insular “brotherhood” mentality where members refuse to rat on each other’s misdeeds and actively work to cover up misconduct. Whistleblowers who try to expose these gangs often face retaliation, harassment, and are ostracized from the force.In 2020, a former deputy filed a lawsuit against the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, alleging he was terminated after reporting that a secret society called the “Executioners” were engaging in illegal arrest quotas and excessive force against civilians.

Perpetuating a Toxic Culture

At their core, these police gangs foster a toxic hyper-masculine culture that celebrates aggression, violence, and “us vs them” attitudes toward the communities they’re sworn to protect and serve. By branding themselves with matching tattoos, they create an aura of being “untouchable” and above the law.This emboldens a mindset where excessive force becomes normalized, and civilian lives and rights take a back seat to maintaining their twisted brotherhood. It’s the antithesis of ethical, community-oriented policing guided by deescalation and respect for all citizens.

Rooting Out the Gangs

Dismantling these dangerous police gangs needs to become a top priority for police leadership and elected officials. Strict anti-gang policies with real accountability and consequences need to be implemented. Whistleblowers exposing these groups must be staunchly protected.Ultimately, these police gangs are a malignant culture that breeds corruption, violence, and discrimination. They have no place in a modern law enforcement agency that should be focused on justice, deescalation, and serving all communities equally with respect. Rooting them out is essential for rebuilding public trust and creating a more ethical, unbiased police force that prioritizes protecting and serving all citizens.