Gangs and Violence in the Prison SystemIntroductionGang violence is widespread nationwide and is one of the most significant problems in the prison system today. Gangs are known for attempting to control prisons, sow fear within the prison system and throughout society, and bring negative attention to the system. “Inmates affiliated with gangs represent approximately 18% of the 18,000 inmates. » (Seabrook) Growing numbers of inmates and many of them serving longer sentences for violent crimes suggest a notable increase in gangs and violence in the prison system in the coming years. “Prisons began housing gang members when states passed tougher laws to combat gang-related crime in the mid-to-late 1980s.” (Martinez) On one hand, the laws passed helped get gang members off the streets, but in another way it backfired by not stopping gang activity. “In many ways, their numbers and power have grown even more in prison. » (Martinez) The problem of gangs and violence has been addressed several times over the years by the United States Board of Corrections, but the board has yet to take the problem seriously. Gang members in prison are introduced to "gang life" at a young age and enter prison as members, but some become members once behind bars, primarily for the protection gangs are known for. to offer. Gangs are known to deliberately intimidate other inmates, reinforcing why “one in ten male inmates” become members once behind bars. (Knox) ​​Most people who enter prison as a member have been convicted of drug crimes. Prison gangs are well known for handling illegal substances, alcohol or tobacco inside prison facilities, this is just one... middle of paper ...... of gangs and groups threatening security. " National Gang Crime Research Center. 2005. Web. January 28, 2012. Martinez, Pila. "New Attempt to Combat Prison Gang Violence." The Christian Science Monitor, July 1, 1999. Web. "Gangs in Prison - Awareness of Gangs and Security Threat Groups." Florida Department of Corrections, Florida Department of Corrections Web, January 28, 2012. Seabrook, Norman. "Prison Violence on the Rise" USA Today. 2005 . Web. January 28, 2012. .Yanez, Dominick. “Overview of Security Threat Groups in Corrections.” Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, April 13. 2012..