Street gangs have existed in the United States since the 1800s. But in the last few years, street gangs have grown more violent, more numerous and more widespread, from the big cities to rural areas. Many gang members are illegal immigrants, mostly from Latin America.
http://www.voanew s.com/english/archiv e/2005-07/2005-07-22 -voa45.cfm?CFID=1235 751&CFTOKEN=54692306
