From Gang Member to NYPD Cop: My Journey and How Crime Works in Chinatown

💼Crime in Chinatown during the 1970s was characterized by violence and a struggle for respect among rival gangs.

💰Chinatown gangs had various illegal enterprises, including extortion, street robberies, and gambling houses.

🔫Italian mafia interactions were common for Chinatown gangs, and gun availability was not an issue.

🏚️Gangs had safe houses all over Chinatown and used secret tunnels to hide guns and escape after shootings.

👥Gang membership was often a way to protect oneself from bullies and gain a sense of belonging.

What led you to become a part of a Chinatown gang?

—As a victim of bullying, I saw joining the gang as a way to protect myself and gain acceptance.

How did the gangs maintain control over Chinatown?

—Gangs used violence and demanded respect to establish control over the neighborhood.

What were the activities involved in gang life?

—Activities varied, including extortion, street robberies, illegal gambling, and selling counterfeit or stolen goods.

How did the gangs interact with the Italian mafia?

—Gangs often had dealings with Italian mafia members, both as allies and rivals.

What made you decide to leave the gang and join the NYPD?

—I realized that I wanted to leave my past behind and make a positive change by protecting the community as a police officer.

00:00The speaker introduces himself as a former member of a Chinatown gang and an NYPD cop.

02:14The speaker talks about the violent nature of Chinatown gangs in the 1970s and the struggle for respect among them.

05:42The speaker discusses the various illegal activities of Chinatown gangs, including extortion, street robberies, and gambling houses.

08:59The speaker shares his personal experiences of being a gang member and participating in initiation rituals.

11:52The speaker reflects on the transformation he underwent, leaving the gang behind and joining the NYPD.