Florida is renowned for its sunny beaches, theme parks, and diverse culture. However, there is a dark and deadly underbelly of gangs that terrorize Florida’s streets and towns. Here are the seven most violent gangs sweeping over Florida.
1. Sur-13
Sur-13, or Sureños, refers to numerous Hispanic street gangs linked to the Mexican Mafia, a major prison group. They originated in Southern California but have since spread to many other states and locations, including Florida, where they are well-represented in the cities of Miami, Orlando, and Fort Myers.
Sur-13 is recognized for using the color blue, the number 13, and three dots as symbols. They are involved in a variety of crimes, including drug trafficking, robbery, burglary, and murder.
2. Zoe Pound
Zoe Pound is a Haitian-American street gang formed in Miami in the early 1990s by a group of Haitian refugees. They have since developed into one of Florida’s most powerful and ruthless gangs, with bases in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach.
Zoe Pound is recognized for using the Haitian flag, the number 1804, and the word “Zoe” as emblems. They are involved in a variety of crimes, including drug trafficking, money laundering, fraud, and murder.
3. Outlaws
The Outlaws are a motorcycle club formed in Illinois in 1935. They are a member of the “Big Four” illegal motorcycle gangs, together with the Hells Angels, Pagans, and Bandidos. They have chapters in several states and countries, including Florida, where they have a strong presence in Tampa, Daytona Beach, and Jacksonville.
The Outlaws are distinguished by their motto “God Forgives, Outlaws Don’t” and their skull and crossbones emblem. They are involved in a variety of activities, including drug smuggling, arms trafficking, prostitution, and murder.
4. Latin Kings
The Latin Kings are one of the oldest and most powerful Hispanic street gangs in the United States, going back to the 1940s in Chicago. They have a big presence throughout Florida, particularly in Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. The Latin Kings are infamous for their drug trafficking, robbery, murder, and racketeering activities. They are also known for their strong devotion to their king, the Inca, and their five-pointed crown insignia.
5. MS-13
MS-13, also known as Mara Salvatrucha, is a transnational gang formed in Los Angeles in the 1980s by Salvadoran immigrants escaping their home country’s civil conflict. They have now spread to several states and nations, including Florida, where they have a considerable presence in the counties of Broward, Palm Beach, and Collier.
MS-13 is notorious for its violence, ferocity, and the use of machetes as weapons. They are involved in a variety of illegal acts, including human trafficking, extortion, kidnapping, and murder.
Conclusion
The existence of deadly gangs detracts from Florida’s colorful image. Sur-13, Zoe Pound, Outlaws, Latin Kings, and MS-13 are among the most violent groups, committing crimes ranging from drug trafficking to murders.
These gangs, which operate in areas such as Miami and Orlando, represent a severe threat to both communities and police enforcement. Florida has the task of tackling this dark underbelly to maintain safety and security.