The extent of violence varies from region to region, but there are many reasons for this, including the age of criminal capos, the geographical concentration of minority groups, and the balance of power in the criminal market. Moreover, the impact of illicit markets on society is directly tied to the strength of the state. Organized crime not only sucks money out of the economy, but it can also form strong bonds with broader segments of the population. Moreover, it can even be the source of livelihood for countless individuals.
While recent organized crime hearings have focused on DTOs, which are arguably the most visible threat because they commit crimes directly along the U.S.-Mexico border, other organized crime groups also commit crimes that affect U.S. national security, stability, and domestic security. This report examines how U.S. law enforcement approaches organized crime in the 21st century, and provides recommendations to help Congress address these challenges.
Congress has made progress on tackling organized crime, with a number of legislations and commissions. In addition to a national counterterrorism center, the government should create an interagency organization to address organized crime. The organization would analyze the threat, share information with partners, and integrate the various instruments of national power. This would increase law enforcement efficiency and eliminate police corruption. Finally, it should improve procedures to gather evidence and testify to crime.
