Mexican Mafia (La eMe): A U.S.-based criminal organization predominantly comprising Mexican American members.
Founded: 1957 by Luis "Huero Buff" Flores at the Deuel Vocational Institution, California.
Territory: Primarily the West Coast and Southwestern U.S., especially within the California prison system.
Membership: Estimated 250-300 made members with thousands of associates and over 50,000 affiliated foot soldiers.
Activities: Includes drug trafficking, extortion, illegal gambling, prostitution, assault, and murder.
Allies: Aryan Brotherhood, Sinaloa Cartel, MS-13, among others.
Rivals: Nuestra Familia, Black Guerrilla Family, and others.
Historical Background
Formation and Early Years
Formed to protect Hispanic inmates from other prison gangs.
Initially recruited violent members to control black-market activities in prisons.
Gained notoriety and influence through violent tactics and control over drug distribution.
Rise of Power
Expanded influence through violence and alliances.
Established a reputation for retaliation and control over Hispanic street gangs (Sureños).
Expansion and Conflicts
Gained control over illicit activities inside and outside prisons by taxing drug dealers.
Engaged in violent conflicts with rivals like Nuestra Familia ("Shoe War").
Organization and Culture
No single leader; members can order murders and oversee criminal activities.
Members undergo loyalty tests, including theft or murder.
Rules and Regulations: No informants, cowards, or disrespect; membership for life.
Symbols: Black hand, eagle with a snake, number 13 (related to Sureños).
Criminal Activities
Extortion of drug dealers outside prison, narcotics distribution inside and outside prison.
Organized contract killings in collaboration with Aryan Brotherhood.
Influence over street gangs to prevent violence (e.g., drive-by shootings edict).
Notable Events
1950s-1960s
Initial formation and early violent acts in the prison system.
1970s-1990s
Expansion of activities outside prison; first ordered murder outside prison (1971).
Involvement in taxpayer-funded program frauds and violent retributions.
2000s-Present
Indictments and federal investigations reveal widespread criminal activities.
Recent operations leading to significant arrests and drug seizures.
Modern Influence
Continues to exert control over Hispanic gangs and criminal activities.
Involved in high-profile criminal cases and federal indictments.
Pop Culture
Featured in films such as "American Me" and "Blood In Blood Out," gaining mainstream notoriety.
Summary
The Mexican Mafia remains one of the most powerful criminal organizations with a widespread influence over prison and street gang activities throughout the U.S. Their organized structure, rule enforcement, and strategic alliances make them a formidable force in the realm of organized crime.