Chapter 206:
According to research by sociologists in the federation, children living in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods had a much harder time finding viable paths in life compared to those in better-off areas.
Joining a criminal gang was one of their few available options.
Starting as juvenile delinquents and eventually joining formal gangs, this culture of crime accompanied their growth, seeping into their very bones. They may not live a long life, but crime would always be a part of it.
Even if a few could avoid joining gangs, they would not be able to sever their ties with them, as this was their life.
To some extent, in such a lower-class society, one's criminal experience and gang status became standards for measuring success.
It was unfortunate, but that was life. No amount of effort could open doors for them.
The trio being arrested and released earned them considerable fame in their neighborhood, and even the way some kids looked at them changed.
Previously, they might have had a bit of a reputation, but now they were celebrities. And celebrities needed to do things that matched their status.
"We could hire a truck. They wouldn't expect us to go right back at it after just getting out."