GANG VIOLENCE IS BY DESIGN

By Leroy G. W. Bean and Hon. E. David Burt

There is a myriad of ideological beliefs and copious opinions presented today on the topic of gangs. Many questions have arisen on its origin, and some have even queried whether it is by design. In this book, Gang Violence Is By Design: Exposing the Lie, Pastor Leroy Bean endeavors to explain a postulation that

• Language: English
• Publisher: Pen Legacy Publishing
• Release date: Nov 21, 2023
• ISBN: 9798989163830

Leroy G. W. Bean

Pastor Leroy Bean was appointed as Bermuda's first-ever Gang Violence Reduction Coordinator. He is an ordained bishop, pastor, and counselor. He is also the founder of Transfiguration Ministries Church, Transfiguration Safe House for substance abusers, and the anti-violence organization C.A.R.T.E.L., which is an acronym for Challenging and Reclaiming the True Essence of Life. He is the author of a previous publication, "The Garden Within: A Place of Covenant Relationship." Pastor Bean has spoken both locally and internationally in places such as South Africa, Eastern Europe, Europe, the Caribbean, Central America, Canada, Polynesian Islands, and extensively through Northern America. As one that certainly is no foreigner to the criminal underworld and having once participated in such nefarious activities Pastor Leroy G. W. Bean 246 himself, he shares his testimony of how he was transformed and thrust into this arena. At the tender age of 13, he lost his maternal grandfather, with whom he lived, to murder. As his journey continued, he witnessed the shooting and murder of other close family members, which compelled him to make a difference. Pastor Bean says he did not choose this pathway, it chose him. He goes on to say "this is not a job, but a Call; for the Call equips you with the passion, vision, and strategy to carry out the work. A Call gives you the ability to rise above your critics and to focus on the task at hand." Pastor Bean currently holds a B.A. in Christian Counseling and Addiction, a Master's degree in Family Counseling and a second Master's in Government Public Policy, as well as a certificate in Law with a plethora of other certifications from gang specialist to Restorative Justice Train the Trainer, to name a few. Pastor Bean believes it is time for us as a country to address the root cause that has influenced and shaped our Island, Bermuda, for too long. He invites you to join him on this journey by reading this gripping, yet revelatory book called Gang Violence Is by Design: Exposing the Lie.

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Introduction

For decades, the topic of gangs has been somewhat of an intriguing subject. The narrative in many circles has been an enigma as it often carries a superfluity of mixed opinions and emotions. To this day, there remains much skepticism surrounding the realities of gangs, causing some to repudiate their very existence. Some believe it is a theoretical illusion while others are firmly convinced it is a strategic, purpose-built plan and design that has had and will continue to have a notable impact on society.

Nevertheless, there are those who are deeply entrenched within this fraternal way of life and cannot find any way of escape. Whether one believes in the existence of gangs or not, the evidence is true and for the most part very sad. The ongoing practices visibly displayed in antisocial behavior among rival groups are seen not just throughout Bermuda, but worldwide. These calculated distractions have blindsided many countries, causing them to focus on the antisocial behaviors exhibited by the gang population rather than addressing the true issues that come from a systemic root, which are frequently dismissed. This then leads to the question, Why have these problems been ignored for far too long? Could the primary purpose have been for the powers that be to avoid exposing the root cause that has no doubt been instrumental in creating and shaping much of the existential views within certain segments of our society?

The instigation underlying this calamitous predicament is that the system’s philosophical beliefs have indoctrinated and sidetracked generations of various groups from its inception; thus, becoming a smokescreen that has contributed to the development, or should I say nondevelopment, of the subculture of our society referred to as gangs. Most who are involved have been propagandized to accept the subliminal message that has infiltrated their subconscious, which carries the notion that the enemy is anybody who does not look like, act like, or talk like them; or who does not come from the same area. The propensity towards such a mindset has blinded many of their realities preventing them from seeing that they are all fighting in the same struggle.

What I find most ironic is that these nuisances are often used as distractions that are presented as though they are the primary issues, which creates a diversion from addressing the truth. Furthermore, the deception has caused dissension between various sub-groups that come from different demographical areas such as neighbourhoods, parishes, communities, boroughs, etcetera. To add to the complication, each area develops its own sub-culture and influences due to the different ethnic groups that bring their own confirmation biases, idiosyncrasies, ideologies, rituals, religious practices, philosophies, and backgrounds that contribute to a myriad of issues.

Subsequently, the focus on waring with each other has created a quagmire of contention amongst the sub-cultures, causing many to derail and defocus from the real issue that so many of us are faced with today. How then do we counteract this problem? By simply educating our people. The late Nelson Mandela said, Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. It is my desire that many of our young and, in some cases, more mature people, will see the real issue behind this phenomenon that Bermuda as well as many British Overseas Territories and neighboring countries are experiencing called gang violence.

Although much focus over the last two decades has been on the unprecedented times Bermuda has witnessed as it relates to gang violence, the underlying influence of the systemic infrastructure has been a significant contributor to this epidemic. Most perplexing is the lack of education which is needed to help bring awareness and understanding that is necessary and critical if we are to reverse the current trend and empower those individuals who are involved in these cataclysmic behaviours. Unfortunately, the failure to educate our population has been another stall tactic used to conceal the real underlying factors. This lack of cognizance has left room for conjecture and has added fuel to the fire by creating ill-informed and unnecessary tensions by rivalries within and between the various sub-groups of our communities.

Since the year 2000, Bermuda has seen two significant surges in gang activities. Some suggest that the increase could be due to the formation of the two mega schools that resulted in the joining of certain opposing sub-cultures being housed within the same edifice. Others suggest it could be the lack of opportunities that have not provided a fair economic and sociological playing field. While these hypotheses may carry partial truth, the reality is that they are only a variant of a greater systemic issue.

From the years 2009 to 2012, Bermuda saw extraordinary figures on gang-related murders, with 80 persons shot of whom 21 persons succumbed to their injuries. In 2010 and 2011, it was stated that Bermuda recorded some of the highest murder statistics in the world per capita. In 2016 and 2017, Bermuda also saw its second spike in gang-related murders and its portion of confirmed and unconfirmed firearm incidents. In 2016, there were 82 firearm incidents. In 2017, there was a decrease in firearm incidents as Bermuda recorded 47 incidents as compared to the previous year. However, it would be important to note that there was an escalation of gang-related murders with the Island recording seven gang-related fatalities. In addition, 2017 saw six non-fatal shootings.

In the year 2018, the Island saw a decline in gang-related murders and incidents as compared to the previous years. In 2019, Bermuda, for the first time in 20 years recorded no murders; however, there were two non-fatal shootings. With all the emphasis and attention placed on the current gang activities, what remains quite apparent is that the root cause continues to go unnoticed and unaddressed as other factors have been allowed to suppress the real issues.

One recent factor at play began in the year 2020 secondary to the COVID-19 pandemic was the initial effect of social isolation. In the first quarter of 2020, Bermuda recorded its first four murders for the year; two were suggested to be gang-related and the other two were believed to be domestic in nature. It has been suggested that this increase in violent activity was a new phenomenon aided by the ramifications of social isolation. It is apparent the effects of social isolation have been a contributory factor in the current state of our island as it relates to such egregious crimes. There is no doubt the world is currently facing critical times.

With all the unscrupulous activity that has been taking place, the fact is it amounts to no more than obstruction and a deterrent to understanding the need to confront the systemic root cause. For too long, the gang culture has been brainwashed into believing their fight is against each other, those in the same struggle, rather than the system from which the issues flow.

There are some from this populace (system) that appear to remain comfortable under the structure that was built to determine their failure. However, they fail to realise that if they are not careful, it can define who they are and what they will become. Young men, young women, elder men, elder women, this does not have to be. We do not have to live according to someone else’s expectations or according to someone else’s design. The intent of this book is to expose the illusive ploys that are incorporated within our design i.e., traps, snares, and strategies that have blinded us for generations, which no doubt are responsible for causing many to function in a mindset that has made them subservient to our present system.

We must always be mindful that nothing in life was created without a purpose – this includes every man, woman, child, object, and country. Yes, even Bermuda has a purpose too, but it is up to us to find it. Remember, to not walk in purpose is equal to not having a purpose at all. Could you imagine walking into a room filled with chairs and standing in the chair rather than sitting? It would look absurd. Many would think that you are confused or do not understand the intent of why the chair was made. This is how we as a nation look when we continue to remain under a system that should have been a footstool for us to reach our full potential. Bermuda, it’s time to walk into our God-given purpose and freedom.

CHAPTER 1

The Trends of the Gang Culture

Over the past four decades, my observation has been that there are certain trends within the gang culture. As with many things we encounter in life, gang culture is constantly morphing, evolving, and incorporating new ideologies, strategies, and inclinations. Typically, every seven to ten years, or thereabouts, there emerges a new young cohort with added complexities that are brought on by the fact that they have developed their own perspectives and creeds regarding the role of a gang. In addition, they have their own independent battles, unlike those battles that have been fought before them or that have been passed down by the previous generation. In this chapter, we will explore some key factors that have never changed and have been symptomatic in every generation of gang culture. These factors will bring a clearer understanding and allow us to see the transition that takes place from the older generation to its more youthful replacements, while at the same token providing pertinent information on the evolutionary process of gangs.

The first factor we will deal with is how the prior generation of the gang culture matures and finds increasing purpose outside of the gang lifestyle and activities. Many gang members at a certain point seem to settle down and find permanent mates, often starting families of their own. Many of them assume meaningful responsibilities such as maintaining employment, paying rent, mortgages, and in some instances, completing their education. This no doubt has helped to form a catalyst to divert these individuals from further reckless participation in gang life, unlike those without these limiting factors.

This allows for this older more mature generation to appreciate life’s true value. It also provides the necessary time and opportunity for them to ponder on matters that will essentially bring forth a more productive lifestyle. After years of separation and isolation from the macro society, many have had the chance to evaluate and accept an alternate mindset by becoming more willing to take inventory of their personal goals, dreams, aspirations, and purpose in life. Remember that everyone is born with an intrinsic nature to live and aspire towards attaining life’s creative design.

The second factor is that a vast majority of this population end up in prison. As unfortunate as this may sound, the reality is that this fate is inevitable for a certain segment of those involved in the gang lifestyle. Furthermore, it is common for this population to accept the consequences of incarceration as a promotion or as receiving so-called stripes symbolic of recognition, status, and rank.

Most important to understand is that if one chooses to proceed along the pathway of the gang culture and adopt the mentality that embraces organized crime, negative behaviour, and antisocial existence, it would be fair to expect to see such individuals before the courts for related matters or transgressions. These transgressions may range from misdemeanors to drug offenses and/or possession of firearms to murder charges. Most of these infringements deliver various punishments i.e., fines, community service, probation, and in some cases, long terms of incarceration. Keeping in mind that with this cohort any negative behaviour will subliminally earn them stripes.

Initially, these incidents may appear as no big deal and stand as a means of building one’s reputation and respect within rival groups. Ultimately, they discover that the pain, agony, and defeat contained within the lifestyle do not match the so-called accomplishments. Then there is the realization that those thought to be friends and so-called ‘bona fides’ for life are not so. They soon come to understand that the surrogate gang family is not, the loyal, and committed support system they thought it to be.

The third factor within the gang culture is relocation. Relocation happens when a person has gone overseas, either by force or by consent. This usually arises when there is the need to extricate a gang member for certain reasons such as safety and preservation. This at the same token can provide and create the much-needed groundwork for potential opportunities that bring more favorable circumstances that, if allowed, can inspire new beginnings, and if adhered to, will bring the balance they so desperately need in life. This shift affords these individuals to regroup and recalibrate while creating an environment for much-needed advancement. Relocation presents the individual with a golden opportunity to experience things that may have previously been denied or had not been initially made available to them. Things such as continued education, the opportunity to start a family, and job skills training, along with desirable employment and associated health benefits, as opposed to the increased potential for harm that is part and parcel of the gang culture. Another thing that must be pointed out is that there are those who relocate for the sole purpose of exploiting and circumventing this newfound opportunity to continue their old negative behaviors and lifestyles under a different jurisdiction.

The fourth factor is a conclusive one that very few, if any, can truly prepare for and that is death. This highly undesirable outcome, or should I say ‘nightmare,’ is always untimely and a diabolical curse of the gang culture that has happened all too often. Death does not occur in a vacuum, but the resultant pain and catastrophic damage afflict the families of not only the victims but the perpetrators as well. It is these misfortunes that leave deep voids in the hearts of many whereby there are parents who have lost and had to bury their children, children who have lost a parent, and siblings who have lost a brother or sister. These relationships can never be replaced.

In the last two decades, each generation seems to have suffered from the same plight. The issues remain unchanged, and at times, there appears to be no advancement nor regression with respect to overall behaviours and attitudes. The only thing that is different is the players, but the principles of the game have remained the same.

The fifth factor that has played a pivotal role and is one of the influences and contributing factors in the escalation in Bermuda’s crime rate over the last 20 years, is the notion that gangs did not exist. Law enforcement of the late 90s and the early turn of the century consistently and erroneously played down the potential threat of these eager, yet frustrated young men craving a sense of belonging, accomplishment, acknowledgment, and being genuinely valued by mainstream society. For years, this idea that gangs do not exist caused many in authority to minimize gang activity simply as disorganized groups of youngsters displaying youthful acts of crime and violence. They thought that if they did not mention the name gang then their existence would be nullified. Due to this notion, the powers that be failed to acknowledge sectorial gangs and affiliate groups of predominately young Black males; thus, contributing to a lack of early intervention. The powers that be must take responsibility and acknowledge mistakes made while exercising a willingness to use new tactics to address the situational causation.

When general ‘necessities’ were not afforded to this sub-culture and punishment and punitive measures appeared to be freely given, Bermuda began to see a kinetic movement of dysfunctional behaviour as it became a more cohesive version of ‘antisocialism’ in the form of predominantly organized crime. Certainly, this was not and is not an unfamiliar scenario in other parts of the world. Nonetheless, it is one that should have been evident in Bermuda based on the circumstances. The reality is Bermuda had borne witness to the very same dynamics occurring in many Western nations. The most evident is the Island’s largest trade partner, the United States, which we have long known to be our most influential trendsetter, in this case, to our peril.

In short, the cause was visible and so should have been the impending effect. Regardless, many of those caught up or blinded by one thing or another were trapped in denial. In fact, many remain in this state of mind primarily because they were indoctrinated by this systemic colonial design. To borrow a quote from actor, hip-hop artist, and social activist, Ice