The rise in the D.C. area's crime rate is related to the rising influence of the Bloods and Crips in the area, according to The Washington Post.
Police suspect the West Coast-originated gangs have contributed to recent homicides in Prince George's County. They linked three stabbings and a shooting in November to a conflict between the two gangs, The Post reported.
"We are seeing their numbers growing right now," Capt. Bill Lynn, commander of the Prince George's Police gang unit, told The Post. "The Crypts and Bloods are the focus for law enforcement now, not only here but around the region, because of the violence they perpetrate."
-MAUREEN MCCARTY
