This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips, exploring their history, influence, criminal activities, notable members, and impact on communities.
The Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips emerged in 1976 in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, branching off from the Westside Crips. The gang quickly expanded its influence, establishing a presence in numerous cities across the United States. With an estimated 1,600 members, the Rollin’ 60s are recognized as one of the largest Crips subsets, demonstrating their significant reach and organizational capabilities. If you want to know more about this gang and its impact on specific neighborhoods, check out our pages on Rnu3 and Sloane’s Corner.
Criminal Activities and Violence
The Rollin’ 60s’ history is intertwined with violence and criminal activity. The gang has been linked to several high-profile incidents, including the tragic 1984 murders of four members of NFL player Kermit Alexander’s family. This incident, a case of mistaken identity, underscores the devastating consequences of gang violence. In 1988, Karen Toshima, a bystander, was tragically caught in the crossfire of gang violence, further solidifying the Rollin’ 60s’ reputation for violence.
Internal conflicts have also plagued the gang. The 1992 murder of Keith “Stone” Thomas, a prominent figure within the Rollin’ 60s, exposed the internal struggles and dangers inherent in gang life. Thomas’s funeral, attended by approximately 400 people, including law enforcement, became a focal point for discussions about the pervasive impact of gang violence. Chilton Alphonse’s poignant statement following the funeral captured the growing disillusionment within the gang: “Once upon a time, the Rollin’ 60s were a family. Now, I think a lot of these youngsters are beginning to question, is it really worth it?” In 2004, the Rollin’ 60s were officially designated as the “largest Black criminal street gang in the City of Los Angeles.” Members have been convicted on charges ranging from racketeering, indicating involvement in organized criminal enterprises, to drug distribution and firearm possession, further highlighting the breadth of their illegal activities.
Notable Figures and Ongoing Activity
The Rollin’ 60s have been associated with several notable figures, each with their own complex relationship to the gang. Nipsey Hussle, a respected musician, businessman, and community activist, openly acknowledged his past affiliation with the Rollin’ 60s. While his association with the gang remained a part of his personal narrative, Hussle dedicated himself to uplifting his community, creating a complicated and ultimately tragic legacy. Rapper Quando Rondo, arrested in June 2023, is suspected of holding a leadership position within the Savannah, Georgia branch of the Rollin’ 60s, evidencing the gang’s extensive reach beyond Los Angeles. Eugene “Big U” Henley, a music executive and father of NFL player Daiyan Henley, has a history with the Rollin’ 60s, including a 1991 arrest. These individuals, and many others, represent the multifaceted nature of gang involvement and the diverse paths taken by its members. Recent arrests and ongoing investigations suggest that the Rollin’ 60s remain active and continue to pose a challenge for law enforcement and the communities they impact.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
The impact of the Rollin’ 60s on the communities they inhabit is complex and multifaceted. While their involvement in criminal activities undoubtedly contributes to violence and social disruption, some members have actively sought rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Understanding the diverse influences of the Rollin’ 60s is crucial for developing effective interventions. Current research explores various approaches, including prevention and intervention programs for at-risk youth, support systems for former gang members, and community-based initiatives aimed at fostering positive change. The future trajectory of the Rollin’ 60s, and the communities they are a part of, will likely be shaped by the success of these efforts. Ongoing research is crucial for gaining a deeper understanding of evolving gang dynamics and the effectiveness of different intervention strategies. The evolving nature of gang activity, influenced by factors such as law enforcement tactics, socio-economic conditions, and community engagement, requires continuous monitoring and analysis.
Crips’ Rivals and Internal Conflicts
The Rollin’ 60s, like many gangs, are entangled in a complex web of rivalries, both internal and external. While the Bloods are their most widely recognized adversaries, internal conflicts within the Crips, particularly between the Rollin’ 60s and the Eight Tray Gangster Crips, often lead to more frequent and intense violence. These internal struggles, driven by territorial disputes and power struggles, contribute significantly to the overall violence associated with the Crips. The fluidity of alliances within the Crips adds another layer of complexity, making it challenging to definitively identify all their rivals. Ongoing research aims to better understand these ever-shifting dynamics and their impact on communities.
Geographic Distribution of the Crips
While originating in Los Angeles, the Crips, including the Rollin’ 60s, have spread across the United States. Though pinpointing exact locations with the highest Crips populations is challenging due to the fragmented and fluid nature of gangs, cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York are recognized as having significant Crips activity. Their expansion has been influenced by factors like gang migration, socioeconomic conditions, and periods of social unrest. Law enforcement efforts and community initiatives play a role in shaping their distribution and activities, making it a constantly evolving landscape requiring continuous observation and study.
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