This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
LAPD Gang Task Force to Decapitate Gang Members' Heads
Well, it's not that literal, but here's what Chief Bratton said today at the press conference announcing a new gang unit: "If you engage in violence, if you stick your neck up in the air, we’re going to lop it off." He always has great quotes--remember him on Lindsay Lohan?
The LAPD now has a rapid-response unit that will quickly respond to gang shootings and other violent incidents, but also--and perhaps just as important--the city will expand their Summer Night Lights programs that keeps local parks and city community centers open late in areas with high-gang crime, said the LA Times.
Los Angeles has at least 430 street gangs. Gang crime was reportedly down this year.