Colorado POST Practice Exam

What was a primary source of income for gang members in the 1980s?

1. Robbery

2. Drug sales

3. Extortion

4. Illegal gambling

The correct answer is: Drug sales

In the 1980s, a primary source of income for gang members was drug sales. This period marked a significant increase in drug trafficking and the illegal drug trade, particularly with the rise of crack cocaine and other narcotics. Gangs became heavily involved in the distribution and sale of drugs as it provided a large profit potential with relatively low risk compared to other criminal enterprises. The demand for drugs was high during this time, leading gangs to establish extensive networks for production and distribution. While robbery, extortion, and illegal gambling were other criminal activities gangs engaged in, they did not match the scale and profitability of drug sales during this era. The drug trade not only facilitated significant financial gain for gang members but also contributed to the proliferation of violence and territorial disputes as gangs competed for control over drug markets. This established drug sales as a cornerstone of gang economic activities in the 1980s.