From Drugs to Murder: Montana’s Gang Problem Grows

BUTTE, MT - Montana, renowned for its quiet, tight-knit communities, is confronting a troubling surge in gang-related activities.

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Recent incidents, including a tragic double homicide in Billings and a spike in drug overdoses in Butte, underscore a growing crisis that demands immediate and collective action.

A Tragic Incident in Billings

On November 1, 2023, Billings was shaken by a drive-by shooting that claimed the lives of 31-year-old Kenneth Morrison and his one-year-old son, Tatee'k Morrison.

Myron Goes Ahead, a 20-year-old resident, pleaded guilty to deliberate and negligent homicide charges in connection with their deaths and has recently been sentenced to 100 years in prison.

This incident is part of a disturbing pattern of violence linked to escalating gang activity in the area.

Escalating Gang Violence

Billings Police Chief Rich St. John has acknowledged the significant role of gang activity in recent violent crimes.

In October alone, authorities recovered 27 firearms associated with gangs and drug trafficking. The city has identified 17 adult gangs and seven juvenile gangs, with affiliations to larger organizations such as the Bloods and Crips.

This proliferation of gangs poses a serious threat to community safety.

The Butte Overdose Crisis

While Billings grapples with gang violence, Butte faces a surge in drug overdoses, particularly involving fentanyl.

Law enforcement agencies have reported multiple overdoses linked to a potent batch of fentanyl powder, prompting urgent public health warnings. The Southwest Montana Drug Task Force is actively investigating the source of these dangerous substances.

Historical Context of Gangs in Montana

Montana's history with organized crime dates back to the 19th century, with groups like the Montana Vigilantes forming to combat lawlessness in the absence of formal law enforcement.

In more recent times, the state has seen the emergence of various gangs, often linked to drug trafficking and other criminal enterprises. The 2011 Montana Gang Threat Assessment highlighted the presence of gangs such as the Native Bloods and the Insane Clown Posse, noting their involvement in drug-related crimes.

The Path Forward: Community and Policy Responses

Addressing Montana's gang crisis requires a multifaceted approach:

• Law Enforcement Initiatives: Authorities must continue to disrupt gang operations through targeted enforcement and intelligence gathering.
• Community Engagement: Building trust between law enforcement and communities is crucial. Programs that encourage community policing and neighborhood watch can deter gang activities.
• Youth Outreach: Providing at-risk youth with educational and employment opportunities can offer alternatives to gang involvement.
• Public Health Strategies: Combating the drug epidemic necessitates accessible treatment programs and public awareness campaigns about the dangers of substances like fentanyl.

Montana stands at a critical juncture in its battle against gang violence and drug abuse. The recent tragedies in Billings and Butte serve as stark reminders of the urgency of this issue.

By fostering collaboration among law enforcement, community leaders, and residents, Montana can work towards reclaiming the safety and serenity that have long defined the state.