Understanding Gang Activity in Montana: My Personal Insights and Observations
As of the latest update in August 2023, gang-related activity in Montana is predominantly linked to the Aryan Brotherhood and other white supremacist groups. These organizations are notorious for their involvement in violent crimes, drug trafficking, and other illicit activities. However, compared to larger urban areas in the United States, the overall gang presence in Montana is less pronounced.
Law Enforcement Monitoring and Local Insight
Law enforcement agencies in Montana, such as the Montana Department of Justice, monitor gang activity. Local police forces also report on specific incidents and emerging gangs. For the most current and accurate information, it is advisable to consult local law enforcement or community reports.
Personal Experiences in Montana Prisons
Over the past four years, I had the opportunity to be a guest of two out of three prisons in Montana. During this period, I immersed myself in a life that, while legally illicit, was both fascinating and challenging. Along with a lifetime of over 17 years in the street, I witnessed various characters and situations, many of which were less savory than others. Within this background, it is interesting to note that, based on my experiences and observations, there are no significant street gangs in Montana.
Indeed, apart from some moral and law-enforcement personnel and occasional confrontations with local home invaders and small-time drug dealers, I encountered no organized street gangs. The landscape of criminal activity in Montana seems to be different from that in larger, more densely populated cities like Denver, Seattle, or Spokane.
Some Colorful Characters and Groups
While there are no substantial street gangs, Montana does have its share of distinctive groups. In Billings, there are claims of color-affiliated groups, and Native American reservation members who call themselves gang members. However, according to my firsthand experience, these are entirely different from the gangs I encountered in other regions. A notable group I came across were 'redneck cowboys' who form groups among themselves and often exhibit similar behavior to street gangs but operate in a more rural, western setting.
The cowboy mentality among these individuals is distinct from that of urban gangs. These redneck cowboys have their own unique loyalties and codes, and while their actions can be aggressive, they hold a certain license that is not synonymous with urban gang violence. Their activities often involve rural issues such as property disputes, cattle rustling, and small-scale criminal behavior.
Conclusion
While Montana does harbor some illegal elements and characters, the presence of traditional street gangs is minimal. The landscape of gang activity here is more nuanced and varied, with elements that are distinctly different from the urban gang culture often seen in other parts of the country. This highlights the importance of local law enforcement in assessing and addressing the unique threats and challenges that each region faces.