Our Orginization

Administration
Bike Patrol
Communications
Community Resource
Crash Investigation
Crime Scene
Criminal Investigation
Crisis Negotiations
K9 Unit
Memorial

Mounted Patrol
Narcotic Investigation
Property Technician
Reserve Officer
SWAT
Traffic Unit
Uniform Patrol
Victim Assistance

Get Involved

Community Resource Programs
Drug/Narcotic Complaints
Citizen Police Academy
Recruitment

Top Ten Most Wanted
Traffic Complaints

Public Safety Information

Community Awareness Tips & Information
Community Programs

Child Finger Printing
Criminal Tip Hot Line
Sex Offender Registry

Information & Data

Alarm Permit Application
Mission Statement
Police Reports
Property Claims
Victim Assistance Guides

Our Locations

Law Enforcement Center
Public Safety Building

 

 

 

 

 

Updated January 7, 2008


A Parent's Guide To Gangs


American cities have been plagued by youth gangs since the late 1700's. Until recently, it was always the "other" cities that had gangs. Unfortunately, this attitude has allowed gangs to grow to epidemic proportions and become entrenched in our communities, requiring a large dedication of money and personnel to be directed toward the problems. When gang activity is occurring in a city, the entire city is the victim. Not only is it a waste of one of the most precious resources that we have - our children - it also drains the community resources that could be directed to improving the quality of life, not just protecting it. Fort Worth is currently finding itself as such a victim. But, with community involvement, parental awareness and commitment to prevention, Fort Worth can make a difference for our children, and for ourselves.

What gang members do isn't kid stuff, and it's not a harmless phase that they are going through. Gang members steal and destroy property and commit many violent crimes. As parents, we need to know why our children are joining gangs, and the warnings signs that may indicate gang membership.

So Why Do Kids Join Gangs?

because they have low self-esteem because they have a lack of identity
because they have a need to feel important
because they are seeking companionship or a sense of belonging
because they are looking for security
because they lack other positive alternative activities, like sports
because they lack parental involvement
because they succumb to peer pressure

So What Are The Signals That May Indicate Gang Membership?

a change in the style of clothing worn or wearing one particular color often
withdrawing from the family
declining grades and poor school attendance
unexplained money or new possessions
tattoos that are affiliated with a gang or group
use of nicknames
graffiti on their personal things or on their clothing
contacts with the police

Remember, just because someone is on the threshold of joining a gang, or is aready in a gang, doesn't mean that it is too late to establish positive alternatives!

So What Can We Do?

establish non-negotiable rules for your family regarding the use of alcohol, drugs, and gang membership
establish clear guidelines and limits for your children's behavior and their activities
spend time with your children; do things with them and attend functions in which they are involved
respect your children's feelings and attitudes; help them to develop a strong sense of self-esteem
if you are unsure or are in a family crises, then seek help from a local agency
get to know your children's friends and acquaintances
become involved in your child's school; meet with the counselors and teachers
educate yourself as much as you can about gangs and drugs

Click for Word Document of A Parent's Guide To Gangs.