Five Crimes You Might Be Charged with if You Join a Gang

 Posted on March 20, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Joining a gang might seem like a way to find support, protection, or a sense of belonging, but it often leads to serious legal trouble. Many gang members face criminal charges — even if they did not directly commit a crime themselves. In Illinois, police and prosecutors take gang-related crimes very seriously, and a conviction can result in heavy fines, jail time, or a permanent criminal record.

At the Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C., our Illinois criminal defense attorney works with clients in Will County, Grundy County, and the surrounding areas who are facing criminal charges of any kind. If you or someone you love has been arrested, it is important to understand your legal options. The sooner you speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of protecting your future.

Gun Crimes

Many gang-related arrests involve firearms. If you are caught carrying a gun without a license, you can be charged with unlawful use of a weapon (UUW). If a gun is used during a crime — even if you were not the one holding it — you could face felony weapons charges. Illinois has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, and a conviction can lead to prison time and a permanent criminal record.

Drug Crimes

Gang members are often charged with drug-related offenses, even if they are not the ones selling or distributing drugs. Simply being there during a drug deal or having drugs in your possession can lead to possession or intent to deliver charges. In Illinois, carrying even a small amount of certain drugs can result in felony drug charges, which carry severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment.

Theft Crimes

Many gangs commit theft-related crimes, such as robbery, burglary, or shoplifting. If you are involved in stealing property, you could be charged with theft, even if you were not the one taking the items. A theft charge can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the value of the stolen property.

If a weapon is used or someone is harmed during a robbery, the charge can be upgraded to armed robbery or aggravated robbery, which carries severe prison sentences.

Assault and Battery

Gangs are often linked to violent crimes, including assault and battery. In Illinois, you can be charged with assault if you threaten to harm someone, even if you do not touch them. If physical contact occurs, it can lead to a battery charge.

If a fight results in serious injuries, prosecutors may upgrade the charge to aggravated battery, which is a felony. You can also be charged if you were part of a group attack, even if you did not throw a punch yourself.

Juvenile Crimes and Felonies

Many people who join gangs are under 18, but that does not mean they avoid serious penalties. Illinois law allows juveniles to be charged as adults for certain violent crimes. This means that teenagers involved in gang-related activities could face adult felony charges, long prison sentences, and a criminal record that follows them for life.

Even non-violent crimes, such as trespassing, vandalism, or disorderly conduct, can result in serious legal consequences for minors. If you or your child has been arrested, speaking with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible is critical for protecting your child.

Get Help From a Will County, IL Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with gun crimes, drug crimes, theft crimes, assault, or other gang-related offenses, you need a strong defense. At the Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C., our Grundy County, IL violent crimes defense lawyer fights aggressively for our clients and works to reduce or dismiss charges whenever possible.

Call 815-740-4025 today for a free consultation, and let Attorney Zaremba help you protect your rights and your future.