NCJ Number
147655
Date Published
1990
Length
57 pages
Annotation
This 1990 annual report to the California Legislature by the California Gang Violence Suppression (GVS) Program focuses on the activities and accomplishments of the program from July 1, 1989, to June 30, 1990.
Abstract
The GVS Program was established by the legislature in 1981 to assist local communities develop comprehensive strategies that counter gangs and their criminal activities. Five related components form the core of the program: law enforcement, prosecution, probation, prevention, and education. This report describes activities in each of these areas. District attorneys' offices with specially trained vertical prosecutors have accounted for the continuing successes in prosecuting gang cases. Prosecution rates decreased over previous years, but this did not diminish the effects these cases have on removing the criminal element from the community. Specialized gang prosecutors sustained more convictions with longer sentences than during any other period. Compared to previous reports, community-based organizations reached 58 percent more of their communities in providing training, education, and orientation regarding gang and drug issues. They reinforced existing linkages with other community services designed to determine the actual and unique needs of the community. Action plans were developed and implemented; personalized counseling sessions for gang members and parents of high-risk youth increased substantially. Law enforcement and probation have cooperated to achieve positive changes in the way criminal justice and community support agencies respond to community needs. The Office of Criminal Justice Planning recommends the continuation of support for the program as well as targeted expansion of the GVS Program. 5 figures on program activities and appended applicable provisions of the California Penal Code, fiscal year 1989/90 funding by county, and State Advisory Committee members