Introduction§Chapter 1 The Maras, a Symptom of Our Times§1.1 The Origin of the Maras§1.2 The Maras from Within: Joining the Gang The Vida Loca: The Maras' Activities and Crimes Leaving the Gang Structure and Organization§1.3 Summary§Chapter 2 Analysis of the National Situation§2.1 Guatemala: Guatemala's General Indicators The Maras in Guatemala Official Measures Implemented Consequences of the Measures Taken Summary§2.2 Honduras: Honduras' General Indicators The Maras in Honduras Official Measures Implemented Consequences of the Measures Taken Summary§2.3 El Salvador: El Salvador's General Indicators The Maras in El Salvador Official Measures Implemented Consequences of the Measures Taken Summary§Chapter 3 Overarching Analysis§3.1 Regional Factors that Contribute to the Expansion of the Maras§3.2 The Maras in Central America§3.3 Measures Implemented§3.4 Consequences of the Measures Taken: Law Enforcement Agencies The Reaction of the Maras Homicide Rate§Chapter 4 Theoretical Analysis§4.1 Punishment and Retaliation§4.2 The Purposes of Criminal Punishment §4.3 Zero Tolerance Policing§4.4 Criminal Law for the Enemy§4.5 The Culture of Control§Chapter 5 Concluding Remarks§References