Models of Organized Crime Executive Summary
Krystal Doss
CJA/384
May 16, 2013
Theresa Bunn

Models of Organized Crime Executive Summary
Throughout the criminal justice system there are two different organizations. The two structures consist of bureaucratic and patron-client organizations. There are also main models of organized crime share similarities and differences. The models of organized crime include hierarchical and local-ethnic models as well as the abadinsky model. However, the abadinsky proposes two models as explanations to indicate the structure of organized crime groups. Within this document the distinctions between bureaucratic and patron-client organizations will be met. The similarities and differences between the main models of organized crime will also be discussed. It is important to understand organized crime and why it is beneficial.
The bureaucratic organization is mentioned in the abadinsky model and implements that effectiveness is the main purpose for broad actions. With activities that consistently enlarge, the bureaucratic model intervenes to maintain the organization with rules, hierarchy, specialization, and means of communication (Abadinsky, 2003). The hierarchical model is similar to the bureaucratic organization where there is a boss followed by his line of workers or soldiers. In this particular model, the boss oversees activities carried out by the workers and is also in charge of their behavior. On the other hand, the local-ethnic models of organized crime are tied together by ethnic or cultural bonds. The local-ethnic model is similar to none other than itself. The patron-client organization is dependent on obligations that link the structures together. In this model, the patron acts as the boss and as a protector to the client. The patron also provides the client with help as often as needed. In return, the client abides by what he is told to do by the patron. For instance, the patron does the networking in order to create more income, while the client attends meetings to collect the income. A prime example of the patron-client organization would be drug trafficking. The difference between the bureaucratic and patron-client organization is more like a corporate structure and consists of one chief executive officer and down the line workers. The patron-client organization has one boss (the patron) and operates independently with workers.
It is important to understand the structures or models of organized crime in order to partake in the criminal justice field. Without the knowledge of knowing how criminals proceed in organized crime, the government would not be able to put a stop to ongoing criminal activity. Understanding organized crime is one of several key principles within this specific field. Research is extremely important pertaining to anything related to criminal justice, but organized crime is a key aspect.

References
Mallory, S. L. (2007). Understanding organized crime. Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett.
Lyman, M. D., & Potter, G. W. (2007). Organized crime (4th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson/Prentice Hall.