The MS-13 Hierarchy Debate: An Exploratory Social Network Analysis of a Shot-caller Replacement by Regional Leadership

Abstract

This article provides an exploratory social network analysis (SNA) mixed methods case study of an MS-13 (alternatively, MS13) street gang clique (MS-13 regional component) in Southern California. It specifically uses longitudinal analysis looking at a before and after ego network comparison punctuated by the event of the replacement of a leadership figure within MS-13 known as a “shot-caller.” This leadership shift led to an organizational change and was initiated outside the clique...