The end of gangs begins with "personal responsibility." The first step is for each member of the community to take "personal responsibility" for their neighbors’ safety. If my neighbor got robbed, I would feel "personally responsible." What kind of neighbor am I to let this happen? Should I even be allowed to live in this neighborhood anymore after being the weak link in the community?
Now when it comes to gangs, that is the ultimate slap in the face. A gang of punks dedicated to committing crimes against my neighbors and myself? I don't think so!
I have a great deal of respect for the chief of police and even the district attorney. I know they can't come out and say, "I am very upset with the people of the community for allowing two of my officers to get seriously injured." The fact of the matter is, that's exactly what they should say. When it comes to Oxnard, the people of the city are by far the largest barrier to a gang-free community.
There is blood on all of their hands as long as they keep turning their heads and looking the other way. They blame the police, the newspaper, not enough after-school activities, the family, immigration and rap music, but, in reality, it is the individuals of the community not taking "personal responsibility" for their neighbors’ safety.
— Michael T. Stein, Newbury Park
Intimidation is the cornerstone of a gang's defense. That is what their neighbors and victims fear most. One gangbanger by himself confronted by a group can be persuaded to cease and desist. But when he returns, and he will, he will be backed by his homeboys and weapons.
So, how can this gang problem be solved? Time and education. Gangs have been around since the earliest days of immigrants coming to this country. The reasons for their formation was strength in numbers to accomplish their goals, be it defense or making money.
Hitler, in his own misguided way, sought to strengthen the Third Reich by indoctrinating the youth of Germany and even tried to breed and raise the future Germany. Taking a page from his book, but with the backing of all parents, we must educate our youth from the primary grades on, about the pitfalls of becoming involved with gangs.
Simultaneously, we must have the parents of these children buy into such a program. Without their backing it cannot be accomplished.
While that is going on, every instance in which a gang member is arrested the District Attorney MUST prosecute the crime to the fullest with no plea bargaining. Sentences, on conviction, must be for the full term of incarceration to be followed by stringent probation terms. A message must be sent to gang members that Society will not tolerate their criminal behaviour.
Within three generations, the parents', the childrens', and the criminal's, a deep impact can be made in the gang problem. Zero tolerance towards their activities must be begun.
When that doesn't work can we try my idea. I know the police have not found a way to make money on my idea, but can we try it anyway.