Organized crime can best be described as:

Organized crime is best described as a structure where individuals collaborate to provide illegal goods and services for profit. This definition captures the essence of organized crime, which typically involves a coordinated effort among a group of people who share knowledge, resources, and a common goal—making money through illicit activities. Such activities can include drug trafficking, human trafficking, extortion, money laundering, or other illegal enterprises.

The relationship among members of organized crime groups often resembles that of a formal organization, with roles and hierarchies similar to those found in legal businesses. This structured approach differentiates organized crime from other types of criminal behavior, such as spontaneous or opportunistic crime, where individuals act independently without the same level of coordination or planning.

In contrast, a group engaging in legal business fails to describe the inherent illegal nature of organized crime. A random collection of criminals lacks the structure and purpose that characterizes organized crime. Finally, an informal group of friends does not convey the seriousness or organized nature of such criminal enterprises, as organized crime involves significant planning and investment in illicit activities. Thus, the focus on profitability through illegal means underscores the crucial elements of organized crime.