AWARENESS FIRST STEP IN COMBATTING GANGS IN THE REGION

Gangs are no longer limited to metropolitan areas. They are operating in Cape Girardeau and other communities in Southeast Missouri. Most gang members carry weapons, and they typically bring an increase in crime.

The first step in combating a problem is recognizing it. The Southeast Missourian published a three-part series on gangs last week. Some people worried the publicity would just encourage more gang violence. The violence is already here. The statistics reflect a growing number of violent and drug crimes, and gangs certainly play a role in that trend.

Local officials are targeting gang activity and have taken steps to curb this emerging gang problem. Four Cape Girardeau police officers track gang activity. It indicates officers with the Cape Girardeau Police Department feel this is a matter to which it is worth devoting considerable man hours.

Two officers are already on the streets. The community policing program has worked well in Cape Girardeau. The two officers work to build close relationships with people living in higher-crime areas of town.

Police are becoming more sensitive to possible gang-related calls, sending more officers or increased patrols in problem areas. Additional officers are slated to hit the streets in July to discourage blatant gang activity, including graffiti signifying various gangs.

No doubt some of the graffiti is painted by gang wannabees. But police are right to figure it is better to be safe than sorry.

Authorities say that for the most part, local gangs are watered-down versions of deadly street gangs in metropolitan areas. But they still are trouble. Cape Girardeau County's first gang-related murder dates back to April of 1993, when a 20-year-old Los Angeles man was shot to death a few months after moving to town. Michael Smith, known to be associated with the Crips, is now serving time for Cameron Childs' death.

In response to a growing gang presence, local law enforcement, the juvenile office and school district officials are working to cooperate on ways to reduce gang violence. Education and swift, strong justice are two important deterrents. But the community can't depend on law enforcement alone to fight this battle. Neighborhood watch programs can help alert police of gang-related activity.

The House of Prayer Outreach Mission also took its message against gangs, drugs and violence to the streets this week. A weeklong revival was held on Middle Street at Good Hope as a way to encourage passersby to embrace positive change. This church, and others which have sponsored similar programs, deserve community praise and encouragement for taking matters into their own hands.

Gangs are everyone's problem. Through awareness, increased law enforcement and education efforts, Cape Girardeau and the region can fight gang violence.