When is a person committing an offense related to street gang activities?

A person is committing an offense related to street gang activities when their actions are intended to promote, further, or benefit the operations of a street gang. This includes participating in unlawful acts that support the gang's objectives, such as violence, drug trafficking, or other criminal behaviors. The critical aspect is the intention to advance the interests of the street gang, which can encompass a wide range of activities, from recruiting new members to facilitating illegal operations.

In contrast, merely having indirect or direct communication with a street gang does not necessarily constitute an offense unless those interactions are aimed at furthering gang activities. Thus, having contact alone, whether direct or indirect, does not inherently imply criminality without the element of furthering the gang's interests.