Grove Street Families
General Info
| Faction Name | Grove Street Families |
|---|
Overview
Known as formidable street soldiers, members engage in activities ranging from gang warfare and robberies to drug dealing and graffiti tagging. They are known to drive low-slung vehicles that symbolize their deep love for West Coast culture. Despite their nefarious activities, they display a strong sense of brotherhood, and the storyline shows many examples of how they are willing to sacrifice personal rather than collective well-being. Their main rivals are the Ballas and the Vagos, rival gangs that share territorial boundaries with them. Throughout the story, the families of Grove Street face dangerous missions against them as they try to reclaim their territory and restore power in Los Santos. While the Grove Street Families often paint a bleak picture of gang life, their sense of unity and resilience against existential threats make them a compelling group in the GTA universe.
The two-fold essence of the gangster story is really close to the families of Grove Street. They symbolize the struggle for power and recognition and the tireless bond of brotherhood amidst violence and chaos. Their journey unfolds into a dark story that captures the essence of life on the notorious and ruthless streets of Los Santos.
History
The roots of Grove Street Families go back to the 1970s, when drugs had not yet invaded the streets of Los Santos. Families only existed for neighborhood loyalty and strength through unity. They shared a friendship and were deeply committed to protecting their community. In the 1980s, things began to change dramatically. Drug traffickers infiltrated families and divided them into feuding factions. The split led to internal strife, the growth of the Ballas gang and the weakening of the grip of the Grove Street families. The faction was further weakened when some members fell into the lure of drugs, which further weakened the unit that was the foundation of their strength.
In the 1990s, the Grove Street families lost traction and split into three distinct groups: the Grove Street families, the Seville Boulevard families, and the Temple Drive families. Each set is in a different neighborhood, but all consider themselves "families."
But even in the midst of chaos and division, some members hold fast to the unified and powerful vision of the Family. Leaders like "Sweet" Johnson work tirelessly to pick up shredded kits, reclaim the city's flu, and eradicate drugs from their streets.
Grove Street Families continues to embody the struggle between maintaining the old values of unity and loyalty in an environment constantly threatened by corruption, drugs and rival gangs. The Story of a Faction presents a realistic and compelling portrait of the complexities of gang life in urban America.
Notable Members
Member #
1
Carl 'CJ' Johnson
2
Sean 'Sweet' Johnson
3
Melvin 'Big Smoke' Harris
4
Lance 'Ryder' Wilson
5
Jeffery 'OG Loc' Cross
6
Emmet
7
Kendl Johnson
8
Brian Johnson
9
Beverly Johnson
10
The Families OGs
11
Cesar Vialpando
Geography
An interesting aspect of Ganton is the large concrete chute that separates the neighborhood, a symbol of metaphorical division and fractured unity within the gang itself. Then there's a panoramic view of the huge crown, adorned with the Vinewood sign, which provides a stark contrast to the gritty streets of Ganton.
Despite the constant war and gang violence that plagues the area, Grove Street exudes charm. The red sunsets that keep the busy days at bay and the inherent camaraderie of Grove Street families create a sense of belonging and home. This defined geography unites the families of Grove Street, creating an unbreakable bond between its members.