NCJ Number
122216
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 37 Issue: 8 Dated: (August 1989) Pages: 62-64
Date Published
1989
Length
3 pages
Annotation
The Sacramento Police Department, through its enforcement and education programs, is impacting gangs and drugs.
Abstract
The program, entitled Partners in Prevention (PIP), involves police officers in partnership with school teachers to teach students about substance abuse. A 13-month trial program used the drug curriculum developed in Kings County, Washington. The program provides structured drug education and prevention instruction. The PIP curriculum fosters self-esteem, decisionmaking, coping, and knowledge about the effects of substance abuse. Each class covers a 6-week cycle; at the conclusion of each cycle, a courtroom drama is acted out. The program to impact gangs and substance abuse extends beyond the school into the community. A police officer contacts community organizations, notably churches, and presents a program that encourages a proactive response to drugs and gangs. Given the success of the trial program, the final program was implemented in the North Sacramento community. One part of the final program involves the training of volunteers to make neighborhood contacts and presentations that facilitate the establishment of Neighborhood Watch programs, with a focus on preventing drug abuse and gangs. The target of establishing 100 groups during the grant period is proceeding on schedule.