Guilt by Association: How California’s CalGang Database and State Gang Laws Jeopardize Civil Liberties

Abstract

Gang violence is a significant issue in California that requires effective solutions. Currently, CalGang, the state's gang intelligence database, does not provide such a solution. It operates with minimal oversight and can lead to severe legal consequences for individuals who have only tenuous connections to criminal activities. Nationwide gang databases pose a serious threat to civil liberties. California's experience with CalGang serves as a warning for other states, highlighting the need to improve gang databases nationwide and to ensure that law enforcement has access to reliable and documented information.

Keywords: gang, civil liberties, calgang, criminal justice