Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) Practice Exam

What is a defining characteristic of a street gang?

1. Non-violent approach

2. Community service

3. Engagement in criminal activity

4. Legal business operation

The correct answer is: Engagement in criminal activity

A defining characteristic of a street gang is engagement in criminal activity. Street gangs typically form for various reasons, but a consistent theme among them is their involvement in illicit activities, which may include drug trafficking, robbery, extortion, and violent crimes. This criminal aspect serves as a unifying factor for the members and often contributes to the group's identity and purpose. The other options do not align with the essence of what defines a street gang. For instance, a non-violent approach or community service would contradict the primary characterization of street gangs. Legal business operations would also be inconsistent, as street gangs generally operate outside the bounds of the law. Thus, the focus on criminal activity is what distinctly differentiates street gangs from other community or social organizations.