Understanding Organized Crime: Definition, Causes, and Real-World Impacts

Organized crime, often misconceived and misunderstood, is a structured criminal activity carried out by a group of individuals with complementary skills. These individuals operate under a pre-planned system, using trusted connections and hierarchy to manage illegal activities such as drug trafficking, loan-sharking, gambling, protection schemes, extortion, and running illegal businesses. The structure is akin to that of a corporation—there's a CEO at the top making key decisions, and a well-defined chain of command that ensures everything runs smoothly.

Organized Crime: A Structured Approach

The term 'organized crime' can be misleading. According to the Bedfordshire Police, they label all crime for which arrests are made as 'organized crime.' In a strict sense, anything requiring some thought could be seen as 'organized.' However, the common perception of organized crime is a syndicate with trusted, respected members of the community—ranging from police officers to local councilors, health and safety officials, and even middle east gangsters.

Why is it Called Organized Crime?

The term 'organized' in organized crime refers to the well-defined structure and roles within the group. At the top, you have the 'big fish' or 'CEO' who makes the strategic decisions. Below are various levels of hierarchy, each with a specific role. For example, in the Italian American mafia or the commission structure, there was a clear delineation of responsibilities. They did not limit themselves to petty crimes; their operations often encompassed extensive crime rings with a chain of legitimate businesses to launder money, making it much harder for law enforcement to trace the source of funds.

Historical Context and Exemplification

The early 1920s to the 1930s in the United States provide some of the most iconic examples of organized crime. Bootlegging alcohol to supply speakeasies, brothels, and casinos was a primary source of illicit income. The money earned from these illegal activities was then used to purchase legitimate businesses to launder the funds, making them much harder to trace. Without the era of cryptocurrency or digital banking, this was doubly difficult for authorities to investigate. Prosecuting the top leaders was challenging since they were not directly involved in the criminal acts but had the resources and influence to cover their tracks.

The Role of Authorities and Corruption

The corruptibility of authorities has played a significant role in the success of organized crime operations. In the 1920s, many judges, police chiefs, and prosecutors were 'in the payroll' of organized crime syndicates. This corruption facilitated the smooth operation of illegal activities, allowing members to avoid prosecution. Even the most basic corruption, such as paying workers in certain industries to stay silent or to support certain strikes, could significantly impact the functioning of the economy. The power wielded by these criminal organizations was immense, creating a system of fear and control that made legal enforcement a daunting task.

Real-World Impacts and Modern Challenges

The impacts of organized crime extend far beyond monetary gains. These groups often infiltrate and manipulate local and national government institutions, creating a web of influence that is difficult to penetrate. Moreover, their involvement in labor unions and business interests can stifle legitimate economic activity. This interconnectedness makes it challenging for law enforcement to identify, let alone dismantle, these criminal networks. In the modern era, the introduction of advanced digital technologies has made the task of laundering money even more sophisticated and harder to trace.

Conclusion

Organized crime is a complex and deeply entrenched phenomenon that has evolved over time. Its structured approach, often involving respected members of society, makes it a persistent challenge for law enforcement. Understanding the roots and mechanisms of organized crime is crucial for developing effective strategies to combat it. The legacy of historical examples like the Italian American mafia continues to inform our understanding of how these criminal organizations operate and adapt to new challenges.