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Definition Of A
Gang
A gang is an
loosely organized group of three or more persons,
whether formal or informal, which has a common name,
signs, symbols or colors, whose members engage, either
individually, or collectively, in violent or other forms
of illegal behavior.
Gang Activity
Gang members
like to frequent the same places as most of
us...shopping centers, parks, special events. They're
showing up everywhere. When a gang attends a public
event, the potential for violence and criminal activity
is great. The resulting violence often claims innocent
victims, which is why everyone is impacted by gang
activity. Parents need to become aware of gang members,
their characteristics and activities, to protect their
children and to enable parents to intervene if gang
involvement is detected.
Who Joins?
Many gang
members have a history of troubled family lives. Many
have been abused and have no background to give them an
understanding of the value of human life.. Young people
of all socio-economic levels and ethnic backgrounds are
members of gangs. In gangs they find a form of support,
attention, and the common ground they may not have with
their families. They are young people looking for
"respect," protection and adventure, who are willing to
risk all by joining a gang in the mistaken belief that a
gang will provide these things to them.
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