Gang Violence

I think it is important to note that the recent action by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors (Metro, Feb. 23) authorizing the expansion of the gang unit in Los Angeles County was a first in recent memory that utilized a “holistic” approach to a corrections system problem. The board authorized an approach that involved all the elements in the criminal justice system in an effort to gain control of gang violence on the streets.

The police can arrest and detain. The district attorney can prosecute. The Probation Department makes recommendations to the court on the disposition of the case (jail and/or probation supervision). If returned to the community by the courts, probation must then work with these convicted individual(s) while at the same time, offer protection to society. The Board of Supervisors approach recognizes that all elements of the criminal justice system must participate to be effective in solving a problem and the board has provided funding to allow this to occur.

This enlightened approach should be acknowledged and encouraged, for it is this recognition that the “whole system” must work together that will eventually bring a unification of resources and a team effort, led by Board of Supervisors, that will curtail crime and protect society.

P. JOSEPH LENZ

President

California, Probation, Parole and

Correctional Assn.

San Bernardino