Final answer:
In the context of gang criminality, nonviolent crimes such as theft or vandalism are considered less violent than violent crimes like robbery.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing the degree of criminality of gangs and which level is the least violent, it is important to differentiate between types of crimes. Violent crimes consist of offenses such as , murder, and armed robbery, involving the use of force or threat of force. Conversely, nonviolent crimes do not involve force or threat of force and include acts like larceny, car theft, and vandalism.
According to social disorganization theory, crime thrives in communities where social ties are weak and there is an absence of social control. Hence, in the context of gangs, a group that engages primarily in nonviolent property crimes, especially under favorable ecological conditions where basic social structures are intact, would be regarded as less violent compared to those involved in violent crimes against persons.