What qualifies an individual as a gang member?

An individual is qualified as a gang member primarily by admitting to membership and having physically identifiable characteristics related to that gang. This means that a person acknowledges their affiliation with a specific gang and may display certain symbols, attire, tattoos, or other identifiers that signify their membership. Such admissions are critical because they provide a direct confirmation of the person's association with gang activities, intentions, and camaraderie within the gang culture.

Engaging in criminal activities alone does not satisfy the criteria for gang membership, as gangs typically emphasize collective identity and criminal enterprises involving a group. Owning property where gang activity occurs may suggest affiliation but does not necessarily equate to being an active member of a gang unless there is an explicit connection to gang involvement. Simply showing up for gang meetings does not denote membership; rather, active participation and acknowledgment of one's role within the gang are essential to qualifying as a gang member.