Gang activity in Central Florida appears to be increasing, says the Orlando Sentinel. The problem may involve fewer than 3,000 gang members, but officials cite growing drug trafficking along Interstate 10 and the area’s growing population. “Gang members, 10 to 15 years ago, they all looked the same. They typically beat each other up,” said state Sen. Burt Saunders. “But now they’re more sophisticated. These are organized-crime syndicates.”
Saunders will discuss with the Orange County sheriff and other law-enforcement officials the need for more manpower, legislation, and prevention. Former state Rep. Norman Ostrau dealt with the issue when he represented west Broward County from 1986-92. “It’s interesting that it’s coming back,” he said. “Orlando, Tampa, I think those are ripe places for this kind of activity.”
Link: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/orl-gangs3105dec31,0,1856350.story