### Question
How does the law define transnational organized illegal activity?


### Answer
Under *16 U.S.C. § 8001*, **transnational organized illegal activity** is defined as:

> criminal activity conducted by self-perpetuating associations of individuals who operate transnationally for the purpose of obtaining power, influence, or monetary or commercial gains, wholly or in part by illegal means, while protecting their activities through a pattern of corruption or violence or through a transnational organizational structure and the exploitation of transnational commerce or communication mechanisms

#### Citation:
  - *16 U.S.C. § 8001*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 99-MARITIME SECURITY AND FISHERIES ENFORCEMENT**

