In an ongoing effort to reduce gang-related violence in Alabama, the state has taken significant steps to equip law enforcement with the necessary tools. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall made it a priority during the 2023 regular legislative session to support a bill aimed at addressing the issue of gang violence.
According to Marshall, the rise in violent crime in both larger cities and rural communities can often be directly linked to gang activities. The newly enacted law defines a criminal enterprise as a group consisting of three or more individuals. To identify a person as a member, they must meet three out of ten indicators, which include specific dress styles, the use of hand signs, or known gang affiliations. Marshall emphasizes that crimes committed by these gang members tend to be more severe, often resulting in harm to innocent victims.
The law imposes significantly stricter penalties for those found guilty of crimes that benefit a gang. Depending on whether a firearm was used in the commission of the crime, offenders could face prison sentences ranging from five to 35 years. Marshall describes this law as a valuable addition to law enforcement’s toolkit and a means for prosecutors across the state to address gang-related cases effectively.
Additionally, the law serves as a deterrent to discourage young individuals from becoming involved in gang-related activities. Any individual aged 16 or older charged with criminal gang-related activity will be treated as an adult in the legal system. Marshall argues that these individuals often make mature decisions, especially when firearms are involved in their criminal activities.
To support the implementation of this law, the Attorney General’s office will provide training to law enforcement agencies on specific arrest procedures and assist prosecutors in bringing gang-related cases to trial. Notably, the law received bipartisan support in the statehouse upon its final passage, underscoring its significance in addressing the issue of gang violence in Alabama.