This classification was established in 1936 and initially covered violations of interstate commerce laws by organized criminal elements especially by violence, bribery, and extortion (Hobbs Act and Lea Act violations). Legislation subsequent to 1936 has broadened FBI jurisdiction; such legislation includes the Anti-Racketeering Act, Kickback Racket Act, Labor-Management Act (Taft-Hartley), and the Interference with Government Communications System Act. In 1977 investigations under the latter law were transferred to classification 52, while new classifications were established to cover the Hobbs and Lea Acts violations 192,193, 194, 195, and 196. The scope of Bureau investigations in the area of anti-racketeering involves establishing the activities of notorious individuals engaged in organized crime; determining the degree and extent of criminal infiltration into legitimate businesses; obtaining information about the activities, organization, finances, and political or police connections of organized hoodlum groups; and ascertaining the nature and scope of interstate gambling activities involving organized criminal elements. From the late 1950's, the FBI has been aggressive in investigating this type of case. For the first ten years in which the classification existed, less than 500 Headquarters case files were opened, but from 1957 to 1971, between 700 and 800 cases a year were opened. During the years, 1972 through 1976, this increased to an average of over a 1,000 a year. The biggest year was 1974 when 1399 were opened. Because of changes in reporting procedures during the latter 1970's, fewer cases at Headquarters have been opened. Nonetheless, the organized crime program remains among the highest priorities of FBI investigative work.
