Origins
The Crips were founded in the late 1960s in South Central Los Angeles. The gang was originally formed as a self-defense group against other local gangs, but it quickly evolved into a more violent and criminal organization.
The Sureños, also known as the Mexican Mafia, were founded in the early 1970s by Mexican-American inmates in the California prison system. The gang was created as a way for Mexican-American inmates to protect themselves from other gangs and from the prison guards.
Membership
The Crips are primarily African-American, while the Sureños are primarily Mexican-American. However, both gangs have also been known to recruit members from other races and ethnicities.
Territory
The Crips originally controlled territory in South Central Los Angeles, but they have since expanded their reach to other cities and states. The Sureños' territory is primarily concentrated in Southern California, but they also have some presence in other parts of the United States.
Alliances
The Crips are often allied with other Bloods gangs, while the Sureños are often allied with other Sureño gangs. However, there have also been instances of Crips and Sureños cooperating with each other, especially when it comes to drug trafficking and other criminal activities.
Criminal Activities
Both the Crips and the Sureños are involved in a wide range of criminal activities, including drug trafficking, violent crime, and property crime. However, the Sureños are also known for their involvement in organized crime, such as drug cartels and human trafficking.
Law Enforcement
The Crips and the Sureños are both considered to be serious criminal threats by law enforcement. Both gangs have been the target of numerous law enforcement crackdowns and investigations.
Culture
The Crips and the Sureños have their own unique cultures, which include their own music, art, and fashion. Both gangs also have their own sets of rules and regulations, which they enforce through violence and intimidation.
Conclusion
The Crips and the Sureños are two of the most dangerous and notorious street gangs in the United States. While both gangs share some similarities, they also have several key differences.
