Bloods Gang Presence in Chicago

Active Since the 1990s

Yes. The Bloods (originally Los Angeles) established sets in Chicago by the early 1990s. According to the Chicago Crime Commission, they are the second-largest street gang in the city, with 200+ active members/associates.

Characteristics

• Identifiers: Red clothing, bandanas, "B" hand signs, five-pointed star, "CK" (Crip Killer) graffiti.
• Structure: Loose federation of sets (e.g., Jungle Boy Bloods, 59 Brims) rather than centralized hierarchy.
• Activities: Drug distribution, robbery, shootings, retail theft rings.
• Rivalries: Primarily with Gangster Disciples, Black Disciples, Vice Lords (Folks alliance).

Law enforcement targets them via RICO, focused deterrence, and community violence interruption programs.