What is a criminal gang defined as?

The definition that characterizes a criminal gang is one that identifies it as a formal or informal organization of five or more persons for the purpose of committing criminal activity. This definition encompasses both structured gangs that may operate with specific hierarchies and informal groups that engage in illegal acts collectively. The emphasis on the number of individuals and the intention to engage in criminal activity is key to understanding what distinguishes a criminal gang from other types of groups.

The first choice describes a formal organization that conducts legal activities, which does not align with the fundamental nature of a criminal gang. Similarly, a group solely focused on charity work, as mentioned in the second option, lacks any link to criminal intentions. Lastly, a social club devoid of criminal intent also fails to capture the essential characteristics of a criminal gang. These options do not fulfill the criteria that define a gang's focus on criminality and the requisite number of individuals engaged in such activities.