Taking the fight to the gangs

Re “City plan targets 11 worst gangs,” Feb. 8

In the ongoing efforts to curb gang violence, we often hear calls for youth intervention. Constructive activity and a sense of belonging can prevent young people from becoming ensnared in gang life. Before its destruction last July, the South-Central Urban Farm provided just such a refuge for young people.

But the Los Angeles City Council has refused to recognize this and the many other community benefits afforded by the farm. Perhaps council members should revisit promoting community projects like this and start listening to the people again.

LINDA PIERA-AVILA

Santa Monica

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I am sure the gang control issue covers these points, but I have not read about them yet. Many gang members drive cars, so check them for current registration, violations, parking tickets and insurance -- chances are that many citations and tows can be made. Next, have the IRS check how many gang members made money and never paid income taxes.

But, until the traditional family structure can be resurrected, up-and-coming gang members will replace those going to prison or being deported.

SOL TAYLOR

Sherman Oaks

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Instead of holding a glitzy news conference to announce a crackdown on criminal gang-bangers, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa should rescind Special Order 40, the dimwitted police measure that protects illegal aliens and is particularly helpful to foreign gangsters.

Special Order 40 prohibits police from inquiring about the immigration status of people they arrest, a foolish hindrance that is entirely at odds with the successful “broken windows” approach to enforcement, which takes small violations seriously.

Villaraigosa isn’t honest about the real cause of L.A.’s exploding gang crisis: namely the open borders and politically correct policing that have turned Southern California into a gangster paradise.

DANA GARCIA

Berkeley