Gang Myths and Facts
Myth: The majority of gang members are juveniles.

Fact: The average age is 20.

Myth: Gang members only harm each other.

Fact: More than half the time innocent people with no gang affiliation are victims of gang crime.

Myth: Graffiti is an art form.

Fact: In large cities graffiti is the newspaper of the street. Graffiti is a form of intimidation and control as well as advertising possible gang activity in your area.

Myth: Gang weapons consist of knifes, chains, and other impact weapons.

Fact: While this may true to a certain extent, the weapon of choice for gang members is a semi-automatic handgun.

Myth: Gangs are turf-orientated.

Fact: In our area gangs claim no specific "turf." In large cities, gangs claim certain areas as their own.

Myth: GANGS ARE A LAW ENFORCEMENT PROBLEM.

Fact: GANGS ARE EVERYONE'S PROBLEM. THEY CAN ONLY BE CONTROLLED IF ADDRESSED BY THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY. GANG P REVENTION STARTS AT HOME AND IS FOLLOWED UP BY EDUCATORS, CHURCHES, LAW ENFORCEMENT, COURTS, AND GOVERNMENT. EVERYBODY MUST BE INVOLVED FOR GANG PREVENTION TO WORK.