The global underworld

"From the Russian mafia to Chinese Triads, outlaw motorcycle gangs, and Latin American drug cartels, the nature and incidence of transnational crime is a serious threat to American security, both at national and individual levels. America's porous borders make it relatively easy for criminal foreigners to establish their organizations within the United States. Moreover, there are well-established groups already present in the United States that are capable of operating on a multinational level." "Response to the problem has been overdue, yet recent efforts to address transnational crime include technological innovations and controversial legislation, such as the Patriot Act and the Home and Security Act. How well will these measures protect Americans from the increasing prevalence of criminal organizations capable of carrying out crimes that span the globe? This important book provides an engaging glimpse into the world of transnational crime through an introduction to the various groups involved, true stories of criminal misconduct, and a careful review and evaluation of efforts to address the problem."--Jacket.