CRIM, organized crime last class

Question 1

Definition of organized crime

Answer 1

Organized crime is a series of illegal transactions between multiple offenders often with specialized skills

Question 2

Distinction between organized crime and terrorist organizations

Answer 2

Organized crime groups primarily seek economic gain while terrorist organizations often pursue ideological goals.

Question 3

Importance of political economy in organized crime

Answer 3

Political economy examines the relationship between political decisions and economic outcomes influencing the opportunities for organized crime.

Question 4

Impact of societal relationships on organized crime

Answer 4

Organized crime groups may provide illegal goods and services that fulfill societal needs thereby gaining community support.

Question 5

Requirement for a group to be classified as a criminal organization in Canada

Answer 5

A criminal organization, under Canadian law, must involve three or more individuals engaged in ongoing criminal activity for economic benefit.

Question 6

Legislation exclusion in organized crime definition

Answer 6

A group that forms randomly for the immediate commission of a single offense does not qualify as an organized crime group.

Question 7

Main objective of organized crime groups

Answer 7

The primary objective of organized crime is to make money through illegal activities.

Question 8

Organized crime’s relationship with public officials

Answer 8

Organized crime may corrupt public officials or take advantage of existing corruption to secure economic advantages.

Question 9

Characteristics of organized crime’s structure

Answer 9

Organized crime groups are characterized by a defined structure and organizational stability often involving complex hierarchies.

Question 10

Examples of illicit goods in organized crime

Answer 10

Organized crime groups typically deal in illicit goods and services including drugs

Question 11

Organized crime’s adaptation to market conditions

Answer 11

Successful organized crime groups demonstrate flexibility by adjusting their operations to meet changing demand and supply dynamics.

Question 12

Impact of organized crime on legal markets

Answer 12

Organized crime can disrupt legitimate markets by creating illegal alternatives that fulfill consumer demand.

Question 13

Economic implications of organized crime

Answer 13

Organized crime can have significant economic implications including the creation of black markets and impacts on local economies.

Question 14

Historical context of indigenous organized crime

Answer 14

Indigenous organized crime has been historically under-researched presenting unique dynamics and challenges.

Question 15

Organized crime and its portrayal in popular culture

Answer 15

Popular culture often romanticizes organized crime contributing to societal fascination and misunderstanding of its realities.

Question 16

The relationship between organized crime and law enforcement

Answer 16

Organized crime groups often seek to corrupt law enforcement to protect their operations and avoid prosecution.

Question 17

Key characteristic of organized crime groups

Answer 17

Organized crime groups typically consist of three or more individuals engaging in criminal activities over a prolonged period.

Question 18

Role of trust in organized crime groups

Answer 18

Trust is crucial in organized crime often fostered through shared culture or ethnicity

Question 19

Flexibility of organized crime groups

Answer 19

Successful organized crime groups adapt to changing market conditions to ensure their longevity and profitability.

Question 20

Role of corruption in organized crime

Answer 20

Organized crime often exploits both corrupt officials and corrupt political systems to enhance their operations and influence.

Question 21

Social connections in organized crime groups

Answer 21

Organized crime groups often rely on strong social relationships which can be based on shared cultural or ethnic backgrounds.

Question 22

Consequences of criminalizing goods

Answer 22

Making goods illegal can create black market opportunities that organized crime groups exploit for profit.

Question 23

Cultural unity in organized crime groups

Answer 23

Cultural or ethnic unity among members of organized crime groups enhances trust and kinship facilitating cooperation.

Question 24

Nature of illegal transactions in organized crime .

Answer 24

Illegal transactions in organized crime are often continuous and involve various criminal activities aimed at profit

Question 25

Organized crime’s connection to community perception

Answer 25

Organized crime can shape community perception by providing services or support that fill gaps left by legitimate institutions.

Question 26

The concept of conspiracy in organized crime

Answer 26

A conspiracy involves a secret agreement among three or more individuals to commit a crime a hallmark of organized crime.

Question 27

Role of ethnic identity in organized crime membership

Answer 27

Ethnic identity can serve as a unifying factor in organized crime, fostering loyalty and trust among members.

Question 28

Social dynamics within organized crime groups .

Answer 28

Social dynamics in organized crime often involve strong bonds that can lead to collective action and loyalty among members

Question 29

Long-term persistence of organized crime

Answer 29

Organized crime persists over time due to its ability to adapt exploit societal needs

Question 30

What is the primary motivation for organized crime groups?

Answer 30

The primary motivation for organized crime groups is to accumulate wealth through illegal activities.

Question 31

What distinguishes organized crime from corporate crime?

Answer 31

Organized crime is formed specifically to commit illegal acts while corporate crime involves legitimate organizations engaging in illegitimate activities.

Question 32

What is meant by ‘insulating’ in the context of organized crime?

Answer 32

Insulating refers to organized crime groups’ strategies to protect themselves from law enforcement and prosecution.

Question 33

What role does specialization play in organized crime?

Answer 33

Specialization in organized crime allows for a division of labor with individuals assigned to specific roles based on expertise.

Question 34

What are the characteristics of modern organized crime groups?

Answer 34

Modern organized crime groups are often transnational sophisticated and engage in both illicit and legitimate markets.

Question 35

What is the difference between consensual and predatory crimes in organized crime?

Answer 35

Consensual crimes involve mutually agreed-upon illegal activities while predatory crimes involve direct victimization.

Question 36

What is the impact of career criminals within organized crime?

Answer 36

Career criminals provide commitment and loyalty making them valuable assets to the organization.

Question 37

How do organized crime groups adapt to law enforcement crackdowns?

Answer 37

They diversify their operations and establish legitimate fronts to withstand law enforcement pressure.

Question 38

What methods do organized crime groups use to communicate securely?

Answer 38

They often use coded language and prefer public communication methods like payphones to avoid surveillance.

Question 39

What is the relationship between organized crime and community perception?

Answer 39

Organized crime often tries to maintain a positive image within communities to secure support and reduce law enforcement scrutiny.

Question 40

How do organized crime groups protect against informants?

Answer 40

They keep members well-paid and feared to discourage cooperation with law enforcement.

Question 41

How do organized crime groups leverage legitimate businesses for their operations?

Answer 41

They use legitimate businesses to launder money and create a cover for their illegal activities.

Question 42

What is a key feature of the division of labor in drug cartels?

Answer 42

Drug cartels often have specialized roles for refining transporting, laundering money, and managing public officials.

Question 43

What is the impact of limited membership in organized crime?

Answer 43

Limited membership often creates exclusivity and loyalty reinforcing group cohesion.

Question 44

What is the relationship between organized crime and violence?

Answer 44

Organized crime often employs violence as a tool for intimidation and controlreinforcing their power within illicit markets.

Question 45

How do organized crime groups develop a loyal customer base?

Answer 45

Organized crime groups develop a loyal customer base by providing addictive goods particularly drugs, ensuring repeat buisness through dependancy.

Question 46

What is the significance of codes and regulations within organized crime?

Answer 46

Organized crime groups establish their own codes and regulations to maintain discipline among members with severe consequences for breaches akin to corporare goverances.

Question 47

What distinguishes pirates from privateers?

Answer 47

Privateers are privately owned vessels commissioned by a state to legally attack enemy ships while pirates operate independently and illegally.

Question 48

What were the dominant forms of vice in 20th century Canada?

Answer 48

The dominant forms of vice in 20th century Canada included the sex trade illegal gambling, smuggling, and the distribution of illicit substances during Prohibition.

Question 49

How did Prohibition in the 1920s impact organized crime in the United States?

Answer 49

Prohibition created a lucrative black market for alcohol empowering organized crime syndicatesparticularly the Italian mafia.

Question 50

What economic condition during the 1920s contributed to the growth of organized crime?

Answer 50

The onset of the Great Depression led to significant job loss and economic opportunities driving people towards organized crime for escape.

Question 51

What is the Alien Conspiracy Theory in relation to organized crime?

Answer 51

It suggests that organized crime is imported from other nations overlooking the role of market structures and domestic factors.

Question 52

How does Rational Choice Theory apply to organized crime?

Answer 52

It asserts that organized crime groups conduct a cost-benefit analysis to determine the viability of engaging in illegal activities.

Question 53

What does Social Disorganization Theory suggest about crime in impoverished communities?

Answer 53

It indicates that ecological deterioration and lack of legitimate opportunities increase the likelihood of individuals gravitating towards organized crime.

Question 54

How did organized crime groups adapt following the rise of drug cartels in the 1980s?

Answer 54

They diversified their operations to include legal markets and advanced into cybercrime and identity theft.

Question 55

What was the effect of the Great Depression on organized crime dynamics?

Answer 55

The economic downturn created a larger pool of disaffected individuals increasing demand for the services provided by organized crime.

Question 56

What are the criticisms of the Alien Conspiracy Theory?

Answer 56

It is seen as ethnocentric and lacks evidence as it fails to acknowledge that organized crime often arises from domestic market conditions.

Question 57

What defines a conspiracy in organized crime?

Answer 57

A conspiracy in organized crime requires a group to conspire to commit serious illegal acts with the intent of profit.

Question 58

How does organized crime utilize violence?

Answer 58

Organized crime uses instrumental violence as a means to achieve their goals such as instilling fear or soliciting compliance.

Question 59

What is the role of legitimate businesses in organized crime?

Answer 59

Legitimate businesses allow organized crime groups to launder money and provide a façade of legitimacy for their operations.

Question 60

How do organized crime groups maintain secrecy?

Answer 60

They maintain secrecy through violence, intimidation, and strict internal codes of conduct.

Question 61

What is the significance of succession planning in organized crime?

Answer 61

Succession planning ensures that organized crime groups can continue operations beyond the lifespan of current members.

Question 62

How do organized crime groups use isolated cells?

Answer 62

Isolated cells prevent communication between different parts of the organization reducing the risk of information leakage if one group is compromised.

Question 63

How do organized crime groups recruit and utilize prospects?

Answer 63

Prospects are often tasked with risky jobs to prove their loyalty and commitment to the organization.

Question 64

What is the role of trust within organized crime groups?

Answer 64

Trust is crucial in organized crime as members must rely on each other to maintain secrecy and loyalty.

Question 65

How do organized crime groups manage their internal hierarchy?

Answer 65

Organized crime groups typically have a hierarchical structure where roles and authority are clearly defined.

Question 66

What is the importance of ethnicity in organized crime membership?

Answer 66

Ethnicity often plays a significant role in membership restrictions and group cohesion within organized crime.

Question 67

What is the significance of financial gain in organized crime operations?

Answer 67

Financial gain is the primary driver behind the activities of organized crime groups guiding their strategies and actions.

Question 68

What role does violence play in the structure of organized crime?

Answer 68

Violence is used instrumentally to enforce compliance and protect the interests of the organization.

Question 69

How do organized crime groups ensure long-term existence?

Answer 69

They establish structures and practices that allow for continuity and resilience in leadership and operations.

Question 70

How do organized crime groups diversify their offerings?

Answer 70

They expand their operations into both illicit and legitimate markets to maximize profit and reduce risk.

Question 71

What is a protection racket?

Answer 71

A protection racket is a scheme where organized crime groups offer protection services to businesses, demanding payment to ensure safety from harm, while threatening harm if not paid.

Question 72

What distinguishes legal contraband from illegal contraband?

Answer 72

Legal contraband refers to legal products obtained through illegal means, such as smuggling untaxed cigarettes, while illegal contraband consists of outright illegal goods like drugs and weapons.

Question 73

What role does rationality play in organized crime operations?

Answer 73

Organized crime operations are often rational, utilizing supply and demand dynamics similar to legitimate businesses, including the strategic use of violence to secure markets.

Question 74

What is the historical origin of organized crime in Canada?

Answer 74

The historical origin of organized crime in Canada is linked to piracy where pirates employed features like multiple offenders and intimidation to acquire goods.

Question 75

How did frontier gangs exploit vulnerable populations in early Canada?

Answer 75

Frontier gangs exploited vulnerable populations by posing as legitimate travelers or salesmen gathering intelligence on potential victims to execute their schemes.

Question 76

How do organized crime groups maintain secrecy in their operations?

Answer 76

Organized crime groups maintain secrecy through oral communications, strict codes of silence, and the absence of a paper trail to avoid detection by authorities.

Question 77

What was the significance of the 1908 opium law in Canada?

Answer 77

It marked the first time a narcotic was outlawed in Canada leading to the rise of organized crime as a marketplace for illicit opium.

Question 78

What is the impact of neoliberal economics on organized crime since the 1980s?

Answer 78

Neoliberal economics has facilitated marketplace deregulation allowing organized crime groups to diversify and expand their operations.

Question 79

What does Ethnic Succession Theory propose about organized crime involvement?

Answer 79

It posits that marginalized ethnic groups engage in organized crime due to barriers in accessing legitimate opportunities to achieve societal goals.

Question 80

What role does Differential Association Theory play in understanding street gangs?

Answer 80

It explains that individuals may engage in criminal behavior by being influenced by close associates involved in gangs.

Question 81

What is the Enterprise Model in relation to organized crime?

Answer 81

It emphasizes that organized crime operates under the same supply and demand principles as legitimate businesses in a marketplace.

Question 82

What is the significance of collaboration among different organized crime groups today?

Answer 82

Modern organized crime groups often cooperate across ethnic lines to enhance their operations and distribution networks.

Question 83

How did Prohibition create a ‘perfect storm’ for organized crime?

Answer 83

It criminalized alcohol production leading to a high demand in the black market that organized crime syndicates could exploit.

Question 84

What does the term ‘legal contraband’ refer to in the context of organized crime?

Answer 84

It describes goods that are legal to possess but are smuggled across borders to evade taxes or regulations.

Question 85

What trend has been observed regarding the movement of alcohol across borders in recent years?

Answer 85

There has been an increase in the illegal movement of alcohol from the U.S. into Canada due to cost differences and taxation.

Question 86

What are some common activities of modern organized crime groups?

Answer 86

They engage in drug trafficking, cybercrime, identity theft, and collaboration across various ethnic crime organizations.

Question 87

What does the term ‘diversification’ mean in the context of organized crime?

Answer 87

It refers to organized crime groups expanding their activities into both legal and illegal marketplaces to increase profits.

Question 88

How do organized crime groups utilize economic downturns for their advantage?

Answer 88

They capitalize on the desperation of individuals seeking escape or financial gain during difficult economic times.

Question 89

What is the relationship between organized crime and social alienation?

Answer 89

Social alienation can drive individuals towards organized crime as they seek community and support outside of legitimate societal structures.

Question 90

What does the term ‘economic implications of organized crime’ encompass?

Answer 90

It includes the negative effects on legitimate markets, tax revenues, and social welfare due to the presence of organized crime.

Question 91

What are the characteristics of organized crime groups today?

Answer 91

Modern organized crime groups are more diversified, sophisticated, and often collaborate across ethnic and operational lines.

Question 92

Role of Hells Angels in organized crime.

Answer 92

The Hells Angels, a major outlaw motorcycle gang, engage in drug trafficking and various criminal enterprises, including intimidation and fraud.

Question 93

Militaristic structure of outlaw motorcycle gangs

Answer 93

Outlaw motorcycle gangs often have a militaristic hierarchy with ranks and roles that reflect discipline and loyalty.

Question 94

Indigenous organized crime in Canada

Answer 94

Indigenous organized crime groups in Canada often operate as street gangs and are influenced by social disorganization and historical alienation.

Question 95

Social disorganization theory and crime

Answer 95

Social disorganization theory suggests that crime is more prevalent in communities with weak social institutions and limited access to legitimate opportunities.

Question 96

Legitimacy of businesses owned by motorcycle gang members

Answer 96

Some senior members of outlaw motorcycle gangs operate legitimate businesses while still engaging in criminal activities.

Question 97

Public perception of organized crime

Answer 97

Organized crime groups often cultivate a public image of power and strength to intimidate rivals and reinforce their authority.

Question 98

Transnational scope of outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Answer 98

Outlaw motorcycle gangs, such as the Hells Angels, are transnational, collaborating with chapters across different countries.

Question 99

Role of veterans in motorcycle gang growth

Answer 99

The return of disenfranchised war veterans from conflicts like Vietnam contributed to the rapid growth of outlaw motorcycle gangs in the 1970s.

Question 100

Relationship between organized crime and law enforcement

Answer 100

Organized crime groups often seek to corrupt public officials and law enforcement to protect their operations and interests.

Question 101

Role of secrecy in organized crime operations

Answer 101

Organized crime groups maintain secrecy through coded communication and by insulating their activities from law enforcement scrutiny.

Question 102

Internal codes of conduct in organized crime

Answer 102

Organized crime groups often establish internal codes of conduct that members are expected to follow to maintain discipline and loyalty.

Question 103

Identification symbols used by outlaw motorcycle gangs

Answer 103

Outlaw motorcycle gangs use distinctive vests with patches as visual identifiers of membership and affiliation.

Question 104

Camaraderie and excitement as initial motives for motorcycle gangs

Answer 104

Outlaw motorcycle gangs initially formed around camaraderie and excitement before shifting focus to profit-driven criminal activities.

Question 105

Historical context of indigenous organized crime

Answer 105

Indigenous organized crime in Canada has evolved from loosely organized street gangs to more structured groups in some regions.

Question 106

The concept of a ‘state of exception’ in law enforcement

Answer 106

A ‘state of exception’ allows governments to bypass certain legal protections in response to severe criminal threats but it raises concerns about civil rights.

Question 107

What is the relationship between organized crime and market structures?

Answer 107

Organized crime often flourishes in response to market structures that create opportunities for illicit activities.

Question 108

How do market dynamics influence the operations of organized crime groups?

Answer 108

Shifts in market demand and the introduction of new trade routes enable organized crime groups to adapt and expand their illicit activities.

Question 109

What is the role of job loss in the context of organized crime growth?

Answer 109

Job loss contributes to a lack of economic opportunities pushing individuals towards organized crime for financial relief.

Question 110

What are the implications of organized crime’s adaptation to market conditions?

Answer 110

Their ability to adapt increases their sophistication and longevity in the face of law enforcement efforts.

Question 111

What impact did the expansion of trade routes have on organized crime?

Answer 111

It made it easier for organized crime groups to move illicit products across borders, increasing their operational reach.

Question 112

How does the concept of ‘cooperation’ manifest among organized crime groups?

Answer 112

Various groups may collaborate for mutual benefit such as sharing resources or engaging in joint operations.

Question 113

Impact of legalizing drugs on organized crime

Answer 113

Legalizing drugs may reduce organized crime’s profitability but does not eliminate it as illicit markets may still undercut legal prices.

Question 114

Characteristics of outlaw motorcycle gang membership

Answer 114

Membership in outlaw motorcycle gangs is predominantly racially homogeneous, with barriers to female membership.

Question 115

Economic activities of outlaw motorcycle gangs

Answer 115

Outlaw motorcycle gangs diversify their criminal activities primarily focusing on drug trafficking while also engaging in auto theft and fraud.

Question 116

Characteristics of indigenous organized crime groups

Answer 116

Indigenous organized crime groups are often disorganized and rely heavily on social conditions for recruitment.

Question 117

Drug production and distribution by outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Answer 117

Outlaw motorcycle gangs, particularly the Hells Angels, have established monopolies on the production and distribution of drugs like methamphetamines and PCP.

Question 118

Methods of intimidation used by outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Answer 118

Outlaw motorcycle gangs use violence, threats, and displays of power to intimidate rivals and maintain control over their territories.

Question 119

Consequences of criminalizing goods

Answer 119

Criminalizing goods can lead to the creation of illicit markets as organized crime groups seek to exploit demand.

Question 120

Exploitation of legal marketplaces by organized crime

Answer 120

Organized crime groups exploit legal marketplaces by participating in semi-legitimate businesses that facilitate illegal activities.

Question 121

Revenue generation by outlaw motorcycle gangs Outlaw motorcycle gangs generate substantial revenue

Answer 121

with estimates suggesting they bring in over a billion dollars annually through their criminal activities.

Question 122

Importance of hierarchy in organized crime groups.

Answer 122

A well-defined hierarchy in organized crime groups helps maintain order, loyalty, and operational efficiency.

Question 123

Impact of social conditions on crime recruitment.

Answer 123

Social conditions, such as poverty and lack of legitimate opportunities, significantly influence recruitment into organized crime.

Question 124

Diversity of criminal activities in organized crime

Answer 124

Successful organized crime groups diversify their criminal offerings to maximize profit and reduce risk.

Question 125

The significance of intelligence gathering in organized crime

Answer 125

Intelligence gathering is crucial for organized crime groups to monitor rivals, plan operations, and evade law enforcement.

Question 126

Role of financial rewards in organized crime membership

Answer 126

Financial incentives play a significant role in attracting individuals to join organized crime groups.

Question 127

Impact of organized crime on legitimate markets

Answer 127

Organized crime can disrupt legitimate markets by creating competition through illicit goods and services.

Question 128

Role of youth in indigenous organized crime

Answer 128

Individuals involved in indigenous organized crime are often young, with an average age around 24, reflecting the demographics of their communities.

Question 129

What is the relationship between organized crime and state decisions?

Answer 129

Organized crime exploits market opportunities that arise from political and economic decisions made by the state.

Question 130

What is the common misconception about individuals on the Akwesasne reserve and organized crime?

Answer 130

The vast majority of individuals on the Akwesasne reserve are not involved in criminality but a minority exploit the situation for trafficking.

Question 131

How does the concept of political economy relate to organized crime?

Answer 131

Political economy highlights how organized crime groups respond to and exploit market dynamics created by state policies and economic conditions.

Question 132

What is the impact of border agreements on crime in indigenous territories?

Answer 132

Border agreements that allow free movement can inadvertently facilitate organized crime by enabling easier trafficking of illegal goods.

Question 133

What is the misconception about criminalizing goods in relation to organized crime?

Answer 133

Criminalizing goods does not eliminate demand; instead it often leads to increased exploitation by organized crime groups.

Question 134

What is the significance of the Akwesasne reserve in the context of organized crime?

Answer 134

The Akwesasne reserve’s unique location allows for free movement across international borders, creating opportunities for organized crime related to trafficking illegal goods.

Question 135

How does the presence of multiple jurisdictions impact crime on the Akwesasne reserve?

Answer 135

The overlapping jurisdictions of Canada and the U.S. on the Akwesasne reserve complicate law enforcement and facilitate the movement of illegal goods.

Question 136

What role does demand play in the operations of organized crime?

Answer 136

Demand for illegal goods drives individuals to exploit market opportunities regardless of the associated risks.

Question 137

What is a critical factor that influences organized crime activities in a community?

Answer 137

The existence of demand for illegal goods and services is a critical factor that influences organized crime activities.

Question 138

What is the predatory nature of organized crime?

Answer 138

Organized crime groups often engage in predatory practices exploiting vulnerable markets and individuals for profit.