Let's launch a preemptive strike on gangs

Nobody likes a bully. No one admires a thug.

That's why it's so hard for most people to understand why anyone would join a gang.

There are multiple factors, of course. In many cases, gang members come from dysfunctional families with little or no parenting. A neglected or abused child is more likely to join a gang because he's full of contempt and rejection.

It happens early in life. We were amazed years ago when a school district psychologist told us that she'd seen third-graders who were already headed for reform school and eventually the criminal justice system.

For people who live in East Ventura County, it's time to declare war on gangs. If we're proactive instead of reactive, we can stop them before they gain a foothold.

Criminal activity (but particularly drug use and distribution, tagging, and physical, emotional or mental abuse) is the tool of gang members. The gang mentality- using fear and intimidation to gain control of an area-can only occur when people look the other way or are apathetic.

Knowledge is power.

Gangs are like cancer: If they're ignored, they will spread. Citizens, people like you and me, must help police officers quickly identify the culprits before the cancer spreads.

It can be done lawfully and effectively. Pay attention to your instincts. Do not keep quiet about or ignore your suspicions. Too often, peace officers hear comments like: "I thought maybe something was going on, but I never reported it."

Most people can sense when something is wrong. That's the time to report it.

If you see something suspicious, please call (805) 6549511. If an actual crime is in progress, always call 911.

Let's get tough on gangs before they get tough on us.