What characterizes organized crime?

Organized crime is characterized by criminal organizations that operate in a systematic and structured manner to facilitate illegal activities. These groups typically engage in various forms of crime that are planned, coordinated, and executed as part of a larger network or enterprise. This can include activities such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, money laundering, and extortion, among others.

The systematic nature of organized crime is distinguished by the presence of hierarchies, roles, and divisions of labor within the organization, making it more sophisticated than spontaneous or isolated criminal acts. Criminal organizations often engage in long-term strategies, ensuring sustainability and profitability over time, unlike random acts of theft or vandalism that usually lack planning or structure. Organized crime tends to thrive on the concealment of illegal activities and can exert influence over local economies and communities, making it a significant area of study in criminology.