Support Gang Alternatives
I would like to applaud several judges in the county who have recently handed down stiff sentences to those convicted of illegal gang activities. I would agree with one of these judges who, in explaining his sentencing, said that it is important to send a warning that gangs and gang violence will not be tolerated.
But the fear of punishment is not the only message we should be sending these young people in our communities. We should also be sending a message of hope by offering legal alternatives to gang membership. Only then can we provide our young people with the opportunity to break out of the vicious cycle of gang membership.
Two such alternatives--the boxing center in Oxnard and the summer youth employment and training program--are currently in jeopardy due to a lack of funds. These programs have proved to be excellent alternatives to gang membership.
I urge the City Council to find the funds necessary to keep these two programs alive.
CHRISTOPHER KINGSLEY
Oxnard
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