NCJ Number
106738
Date Published
1987
Length
14 pages
Annotation
The mayor's task force in Jackson, Mississippi, identified the problem of violent juvenile street gangs, formulated a specific set of measurable goals, and established a structure to achieve the goals.
Abstract
The result of 6 months of interviews, public forums, and contributions by official and community organizations was the development of both long-term and short-term strategies of gang control. Recommendations included a 72-hour amnesty for possession of illegal weapons, establishment of a temporary conflict resolution center, and broadening of police policy toward juveniles. Local media were requested to give free time and avoid sensationalism. Also recommended were job programs for unemployed youth; low-cost medical, dental, and preventive health care; and the establishment of a multiservice community center offering diagnostic and coordinated help for youth.