There have been some gang related incidents in and around Lebanon, but nothing major so far. Local leaders do not want to cause any alarm. They do, though, want to inform the community about gang activity. They say recognizing it is the first step toward prevention and solutions.
In many Lebanon alleys, there is graffiti. To police, the markings are often more than just graffiti. They let police know that there are gangs there.
Detective Anthony Verna explains, "We're seeing kids probably around 12, 13-years-old that are beginning to at least hang out with the gang members and join gangs."
Detective Verna will not give the gangs' names. He does not want to give gang members the satisfaction. He will say that though gangs are not rampant, they are picking up some steam.
"Primarily, they're involved in drug dealing. Obviously, some violence," says Verna. "I'd say we've had an established presence for the last few years now and we want to stop the problem before it gets worse."
Verna wants the community to be both aware and involved. That is something the Lebanon Valley Family YMCA is on board with. The YMCA has been the victim of gang tagging.
"Every now and then I'd say once or twice a year, unfortunately we do on the back of our building, we do get some painting back there and so forth," says CEO Phil Tipton.
The YMCA offers programs to keep young people off the streets and in a safe, structured environment.
"Here at the Y we have gymnastics programs, we have basketball, youth sports, a fitness program," Tipton explains. "We have a youth center with pool tables."
Of course, not all graffiti you see in Lebanon is gang-related. But police ask that if you do see it, you report it. They then can investigate it and do something about it.
"The gangs are a growing problem, but through enforcement we are trying to eradicate or at least reduce the amount of gang activity going on," notes Verna.
Police say it is important to get young people involved in activities like: The YMCA, Big Brothers / Big Sisters, 4-H or sports. Parents should talk to your children. Let them know what is expected of them and what is right and wrong. You should also look for changes in a child's behavior that could single that something bad is going on.
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