American criminal underworld

The American criminal underworld refers to a network of organized groups involved in illegal activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, money laundering, and racketeering. These groups often operate covertly, enforcing hierarchies and codes of conduct. While some are loosely connected, others are highly organized, with influence spanning local, regional, or national levels. Law enforcement agencies work to dismantle these organizations, often facing challenges due to their secretive nature and sophisticated operations. The underworld's presence impacts communities through violence, corruption, and economic disruption, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat organized crime in the United States.