lmfao @ "organized crime". Talk about stereotyping. I'm sure you could find alot of other "establishments" that are into organized crime. I'm sure you could even find instances where the mom and pop store was involved in organized crime. Funny thing is you could have shopped their and never even knew it. Seems typical of some to stereotype in such a manner. The "sinners" are always involved in some kind of crime aren't they?
SOME CHARACTERISTICS OF ORGANIZED CRIME:
Conspiracy & Hierarchy -- planning, organizing, executing; three or more permanent levels of rank with a division of labor or specialization.
Ideology of Economics -- it's just business, nothing personal; it's probably more accurate to say they have no ideology, no politics; intimidation, violence, and coercion are business, profit oriented.
Perpetuity -- the organization is designed to last through time, beyond the lifespan of current members via a mix of legitimate "fronts".
Monopoly -- they have total control over a particular turf or industry, seeking goods or services that are presently illegal or quasi-illicit and that have such a demand that raising price won't matter.
Strict discipline -- the group controls its members promptly, deadly; there's a code of silence, secrecy, extensive rules and regulations.
Restricted membership -- on ethnic, kinship, criminal record, or other grounds; applicants need a sponsor; not anyone can join.
Immunity from prosecution -- the group is interested in corruption, in fixing the criminal justice system.
