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Criminal

Sep. 23, 2011

Gang members, how different are they?

To curb criminal gang activity, we have adopted special sentencing rules and uniquely oppressive correctional practices. By Hadar Aviram of UC Hastings College of the Law.


This month, the state Supreme Court heard oral arguments in People v. Vang, an assault case involving gang expert testimony. Under California sentencing laws, a gang sentencing enhancement requires the jury to decide whether the defendant committed the offense to benefit the gang. Evidence to this effect is often presented through the testimony of gang experts, usually police officers, who testify as to the norms and practices of gangs in general and the gang in que...

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