Understanding Gang Enhancements: What You Need to Know
Being a member of a gang is not necessarily a crime. However, if a crime is committed in association with a gang, the penalties for that crime may be more severe. 
Under Ohio and federal law, you may face enhanced penalties (“gang enhancements”) when the crime was committed to benefit, promote, or further the interests of a criminal gang. This may include drug trafficking, shootings, and other crimes where the prosecution can prove a connection to gang activity.
How Gang Enhancements Can Increase Your Prison Sentence
Gang enhancements can add 1 to 3 years of prison time to an existing sentence.
For example, if you are charged with a 3-year prison term for a violent crime, gang enhancements may increase your prison sentence to 6 years.
Gang enhancements can apply to a variety of cases, including misdemeanors, felonies, repeat offenses, juvenile cases, and especially gang-related crimes committed in school zones.
If you have been charged with a crime that may include gang enhancements, it is important to seek legal counsel to determine your best defense strategy.
Are you or someone you know facing criminal charges?
If you are facing criminal charges, you need to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The Law Offices of Steven R. Adams is recognized by Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, The Best Lawyers in America, National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and is one of U.S. News' Best Law Firms. Please contact us online or call our Cincinnati office directly at 513-929-9333 to schedule your free consultation.
