Boozman: Gang Awareness Leads to Safe Neighborhoods

Boozman: Gang Awareness Leads to Safe Neighborhoods

U.S. Representative John Boozman (R-AR), ), member of the Speaker's Task Force for a Drug-Free America, today participated in a Gang Awareness and Prevention Seminar in Rogers.

The seminar, hosted by Western District U.S. Attorney Robert C. Balfe and the Project Safe Neighborhoods Task Force, brought together government leaders, law enforcement, and gang-prevention experts. The program included instruction in how to properly assess gang situations and developing comprehensive approaches to prevent and suppress youth gang problems.

The seminar follows an Anti-Gang Summit hosted by Boozman in September, and illustrates his commitment to remain proactive in dealing with gangs in the 3rd District.

"Our efforts to combat violent gangs should be centered on suppression, prevention and intervention," Boozman said. "We should round up gang leaders and the most violent members of gangs; provide alternatives for young people who may be attracted to gangs; and do everything we can to support those who wish to leave the lifestyle behind.

"Gangs are something our children should be protected from," Boozman said. "The influence of gangs is a detriment to the education of our youth in the 3rd District and should be addressed before they can take a major foothold in our area.

"Awareness of the gang problem will lead to safe neighborhoods and safer schools," Boozman added.

Boozman supported the passage the Gang Deterrence and Community Protection Act (H.R. 1279) which dramatically increases criminal penalties for gang-related crimes. The act expands incidences where juvenile gang members can be charged with felonies and authorizes the creation criminal street gang enforcement teams.

http://www.boozman.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=53364