Violence Rises, and L.A. Mayor Puts Gangs on Notice
In Los Angeles, gang violence this year has increased by 14 percent, and cases of apparently racially motivated gang violence have gotten national attention. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who has dubbed gang-related violence Public Enemy Number One, is asking federal authorities for assistance.
In the city, there is also concern that gang members who were locked up under mandatory sentencing minimums during the raging gang conflict of the 1980s are now coming up for release, after serving 20-year sentences.
Michele Norris talks with Villaraigosa about his plans to get gangs back under control in the country's second-largest city.
Related NPR Stories
The Evolving Idea of a Hate Crime in America Jan. 25, 2007
Long Beach Awaits Hate-Crime Verdict Jan. 25, 2007
Los Angeles Sees Surge in Gang Violence Jan. 21, 2007
Judge Blocks Los Angeles Mayor from School Control Dec. 22, 2006
L.A. Mayor-Elect Antonio Villaraigosa May 19, 2005