Many believe that gangs are something that they'll never have to deal with. Hopefully, that is the case for you and yours. However, experts warn there are 7 specific gangs in Missouri you should at least be aware of and maybe even worry about, too.

I think that, for the most part, I have lived a fairly puritanical life. I don't drink, have never smoked and tend to be at home with my family when I'm not working. But, even I have had a few quite frightening encounters with gangs. About 30 years ago, I was doing a night radio show and would get off-the-air around midnight. I would sometimes go through a drive-thru on the way home. There was one night I was very sorry I made that choice.

It was between midnight and 1am when I pulled into a drive-thru that had concrete walls on the side leading up to the window where you would pay for your food. I noticed the car in front of me was a low-rider. After I was already in the lane with no way to back out, at least half a dozen guys got out of the car in front of me and stared me down. I didn't move and definitely did not make any hand gestures. Eventually, they got back in their car and moved on, but I've always wondered what might have happened if I had done the wrong thing, even if by accident.

That's why I pay attention to lists like the one just shared by 24/7 Wall St. They've listed the 7 gangs in Missouri that have a confirmed presence in the state and should be paid attention to.

  • Aryan Circle
  • Family Values
  • Joplin Honkys
  • Missouri Aryan Brotherhood
  • Norteños
  • Peckerwood Midwest
  • Sacred Separatist Group

I've only witnessed one of these gangs in passing on Highway 61. It was quite an intimidating sight. In my experience, most gangs will leave you alone as long as you don't cross paths with them or intentionally annoy them. But, like my experience above, you never know when regular life will lead you into a situation which could have dire consequences. There are very few things in life that I fear, but I do everything I can to not invite trouble. Knowing who these gangs are and where they are is key to avoiding that bad kind of trouble.

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