Gang Shooting in Westwood
I read with amazement and dismay the articles in The Times (Metro, Feb. 2, 3) pertaining to the gang shooting in Westwood.
First of all, let me say that I am saddened by the loss of life as a result of a senseless attack and I grieve with the family. But to highlight one isolated attack in Westwood when so many deaths have occurred in South-Central and East Los Angeles makes a mockery of the police motto “To protect and serve.”
I sincerely hope Lt. Gabe Ornelas’ erroneous statements are not indicative of the Los Angeles law enforcement leadership. Ornelas must understand that Westwood Village is not a separate entity, but a part of Los Angeles and, the gang problem is a citywide phenomena. He must also understand that there are those in South-Central and East Los Angeles who have given unquestionable support to the LAPD (block clubs) without getting any financial support and to call them snitches is something you do not blurt out when you are speaking on behalf of a governmental agency that citizens need to have faith in.
Until we deal with the true evils of such violent acts, no massive build-up of police protection will be adequate.
DOROTHY JACKSON
Chairperson
Black American Assn. of California
Los Angeles Chapter
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