Gangs and Homicide in Trinidad and Tobago Andrew M. Fox, Charles M. Katz, & Lexi Gill Background Data Homicide rates in the Caribbean are among the highest in the world Most of the theories and explanations about communities and violence were developed in the United States. Gang Expert Survey at the 66 police districts in Trinidad and Tobago Census data Homicide counts from TT Police Service Findings Caveats Community factors and homicide Two types of disadvantage were identified, traditional disadvantage and social disadvantage. Gangs and gang members and homicide Controlling for community factors, increases in either gangs or gang members is associated with significant increases in homicides. Gang data is reported by law enforcement Findings from one country in the Caribbean Need more research on what other community factors are related to gangs and homicides Note: Being prepared for “Caribbean Perspectives on Criminology and Criminal Justice,” a book edited by Dr. Wendell C. Wallace

Policy Implications Reduction in gang membership can reduce the number of homicides in a community. Addressing social/ familial disadvantage (unemployment, female headed households with kids) can have an impact on homicide rates. Need to further address the factors that are related to gang membership and address them early.