Feds: Gang problem in the U.S. is getting worse

(CBS/AP) WASHINGTON - According to the federal government, the gang problem in the Unites States is growing. There are currently an estimated 1.4 million members in approximately 33,000 gangs.

In a national gang threat assessment for 2011, it was concluded that gangs are working with drug trafficking organizations and the range of their unlawful activities is growing. This includes mortgage fraud, counterfeiting, and the trafficking of drugs and guns.

Gang membership is increasing the most in the Northeast and Southeast regions of the United States. There has also been a boost in ethnic-based gangs including African, Asian, and Caribbean gangs. This report is based on federal, state and local law enforcement data.