The Zoes, a formidable criminal syndicate rooted in the Haitian-American community, originated on the streets of Miami, Florida. Emerging in the mid-1990s within the Little Haiti neighborhood, the group was formed by Haitian immigrant youths as a defensive response to threats from African American and Hispanic groups. This organization quickly evolved into Florida's largest and most perilous gang, extending its influence across the state and becoming the fifth-largest Black gang in the United States.
The Zoes initially served as a bastion of Haitian pride among youth in South Florida, who, prior to the gang's rise, often concealed their heritage out of fear of persecution. The gang's public displays of pride, such as driving in convoys of vintage Chevrolets adorned with Haitian flags, became legendary spectacles of cultural pride.
Criminal Activities
The Zoes have diversified their criminal portfolio to include drug trafficking, arms dealing, robbery, extortion, and more. Their criminal reach extends beyond the U.S., with presence reported in the Bahamas, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad, France, the United Kingdom, West Africa, and Canada. The gang's secrecy has shrouded much of its international operations in mystery.
Notable Factions
Zoe Pound, the original faction, has become synonymous with the gang's identity. Other factions include Top-6, Zoe Mafia Family, True Haitian Posse, and the Custer Street Gang, each with its own regional influence.
Zoe Pound
Zoe Pound started in Miami's Little Haiti as a means for Haitians to earn money through criminal acts, growing to over 50,000 members nationwide. They are known for their alliances with other notorious gangs like the Crips and Bloods, and for using voodoo against rivals—a practice less common among newer members.
Top-6
Originating as a rap group in Lake Worth, Top-6 became a brutal gang controlling large parts of South Florida with over 3,000 members. They are infamous for their violent methods and lack of remorse for civilian casualties.
True Haitian Posse
This faction expanded from Lake Worth into Broward County, forming alliances with other Zoe gangs and local Crip and Blood sets. They are in conflict with Yardie gangs over Broward's drug trade.
Zoe Mafia Family
Initially a prison gang, ZMF grew rapidly, aligning with various criminal groups to control Florida's prisons. They claim to be transitioning into a rap group, though authorities are skeptical.
Haitian Mafia
Operating primarily in New York City, the Haitian Mafia is highly secretive, with alliances in the U.S. and Canada. They are at odds with numerous rival gangs.
Alliances and Rivalries
The Zoes have forged alliances with other Black criminal organizations and Latin Caribbean gangs, including the Marielitos and the Netas. Their enemies include the Yanks, Surenos, and several White Supremacist groups.
Entertainment Influence
The Zoes have penetrated the entertainment industry, with numerous rappers like Rick Ross and Ace Hood giving shout-outs to the gang in their music. This has further solidified their notoriety and influence.
Racial Makeup
The Zoes primarily comprise Haitian immigrants, yet they have expanded to include other Afro-Caribbean ethnicities. This inclusivity has helped them spread their influence across various cultural lines and geographical locations.
Identification
The Zoes are known for their distinctive use of the Haitian flag and colors, though they often eschew specific colors to avoid law enforcement attention. Members are known to blend in with local communities while maintaining strong cultural symbols.
In conclusion, the Zoes have transformed from a local youth gang into an expansive criminal organization with an international footprint, deeply entwined with cultural identity and pride.