In 1991, there were 160 gangs in Florida, but by 2007 the number jumped to more than 1,500 with more than 65,000 members or associates, which is roughly the population of Daytona Beach.
Right now, there are more gangs in Florida than ever before, with nearly 400 in central Florida alone, according to the latest state study.
Channel 9’s Tim Barber hit the streets to learn more about the gangs and asked investigators what they’re doing to lock members up.
A 14-year old central Florida girl was asleep when rival gangs opened fire on each other, shattering her window. Channel 9 is not identifying the girl, who said she’s afraid the gangs could punish her for talking.
“I thought it was a nightmare,” the girl said, saying she hears gunshots every week.
Gangs are not a new threat, but the most recent state study shows the problem is getting worse.
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