Symbolic Relationship Between Organized Crime And Politics

1. What is the “Symbolic Relationship” between organized crime and politicians?

Organized crime cannot successfully thrive and profit without a corrupt political system. Both public officials and the business sector play an integral role in organized crime. The “symbolic relationship” between organized crime and politicians can be described by the following: corrupt officials provide so called favors to organized crime groups in exchange for campaign contributions, electoral votes and respectability, bribery, political graft, as well as investment ventures (Lyman & Potter, 2015). Organized crime has provided corrupt officials with billions of dollars to date. For example, the Pennsylvania Crime Commission found that organized crime groups in Reading, Pennsylvania had established a set price with the court system to dismiss their criminal cases (Lyman & Potter, 2015). In addition, gambling networks in many Pennsylvania cities were found to be collaborating with city mayors, police chiefs, and other public officials (Lyman & Potter, 2015).

2. Discuss organized crime's relationship with the last five presidents of the United States.

Barack Obama is originally from the city of Chicago, known for its
Multijurisdictional task forces can be described as specialized units comprised of law enforcement officers from several different agencies (Lyman & Potter, 2015). These units are granted further jurisdiction in an effort to address drug trafficking and violent crimes. The success of these units results from shared information and expertise, enhanced communication between agencies and communities, as well as improved coordination of tasks. Multijurisdictional task forces can better target drug offenders who cross jurisdictional boundaries (Lyman & Potter, 2015). These task forces have received considerable funding to conduct investigations, seize illegal drugs, and prosecute