NCJ Number
146792
Date Published
1990
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This document describes common types of street gangs in the Seattle area and provides suggestions for parents, schools, community organizations, and law enforcement agencies for preventing children and youth from becoming involved in gangs or drug abuse.
Abstract
The gangs now seen in the Seattle area emanated from the street gangs that emerged in Los Angeles in the 1960's and early 1970's. The gangs spread to other areas largely due to their desires for greater profits from crack cocaine trafficking. The traditional black Crips and Blood street gangs were the first to be noticed in Seattle. Asian, Hispanic, and white gangs are now active locally as well. Youths range in the extent of their involvement in gangs. Nicknames, colors, graffiti, and hand signs are among the identifying characteristics of gangs. In King County (Wash.), specially trained uniformed police officers teach the Drug Abuse and Resistance Education Program to students in fifth and sixth grades. Responding to gangs requires a systematic, comprehensive, and collaborative approach that incorporates prevention, intervention, and suppression strategies. In areas where gang activity is high, responsible adult supervision is critical. Parents must learn about the early signs of gang involvement and must spend quality time with their children, listening to them and providing good role models. Chart showing drug effects, list of suggestions for parents, checklists, and illustrations