In 2001 and again in 2003, as part of the School Crime Supplement to the National Crime Victimization Survey, students ages 12–18 were asked about the presence of gangs in their schools during the prior 6 months. In both years, about 1 in 5 reported that gangs were present. Among minority students, students in city schools, and those in upper grades, much higher proportions reported gang presence. For instance, in 2003, 42 percent of urban Hispanic students said they attended schools in which gangs were present.

More statistics about gangs can be found in OJJDP's Juvenile Offenders and Victims: 2006 National Report. Also visit http://www.iir.com/nygc for more information about gangs.

Read "Los Angeles Launches Gang Reduction Initiative Based on OJJDP Model" to learn how one major city is combating gang activity. Visit OJJDP's Statistical Briefing Book for comprehensive statistical information on juvenile offenders and other topics.