Gang intelligience

A gang is a group of people that commits crime. A gang may have its own neighborhood. Gang members protect their "turf" at all costs. And the costs are often high! Most gangs are made up of young people. Most members are in their teens or early 20's. But some join when they are only 10 or 11 years old. No two gangs are the same. Each has its own:

Name
Way of dressing (for example, they may wear certain colors)
Secret handshake or code.

Gangs cause big trouble for everyone! Many people are hurt or killed by gangs each year. Gang crimes include:

Stealing
Destroying property
Selling drugs
Assault
Drive-by shootings
Rape
Murder

Joining a gang can lead to:

Arrest and jail
Dropping out of school
Injury
Death

Why do some young people join gangs?

Money or goods
Excitement
Friends
A sense of belonging and purpose
Power
Protection from other youths
Relief from an unhappy home life

Know the signs of trouble.

Children who join a gang may

Have special hairstyles, cloths or jewelry
Write a special symbol on books or clothing
Get a tattoo
Suddenly have a new set of friends
Stay out late
Skip school a lot
Put down people of other races
Have money without having a job
Be hard to get along with
Carry a weapon

Talk to your child if you see signs like these! Do not assume anything. If your child has joined a gang ask why. There may still be time to change his or her mind.