Program Aims to Curtail Gangs : SAN DIEGO
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A San Diego councilman kicked off a program Thursday to enforce curfews and film criminal activity in an effort to fight gangs in his district.
Councilman George Stevens vowed to clear gangs out of his 4th Council District with Operation Shutdown, a program that will enforce a 10 p.m. curfew for those under 18 and provide five video cameras for police and neighborhood residents to tape criminal activity.
The city already has a 10 p.m. curfew for minors that usually is not enforced. Under the new program, police will crack down on violators, detaining those under 18 who are caught outside after 10 p.m., and then contact parents.
“I hope Operation Shutdown will bring peace and safety and security to our district,” Stevens said. “I refuse to let gang members dictate the quality of life we will lead in our neighborhoods.”
In Operation Shutdown, undercover agents will attempt to join neighborhood gangs, then seek informants. Uniformed police and others will also be given video cameras donated by local businesses to tape illicit activities, Stevens said.
Police said no additional officers will be assigned to Stevens’ district, which includes Paradise Hills, Lincoln Park and Oak Park.
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