He Said wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:24 PM:"For police, the primary response to gang activity is enforcement, Kearny said. Something as basic as enforcing curfews can keep young potential victims and potential criminals away from one another, he said"

HOW ABOUT THIS? Why not keep the "potential" criminals away period?

Criminals are criminals, and victims are victims.

There is no symbiotic relationship between "potential" criminals and "potential" victims. You are either a criminal, or you're not. You are either a victim, or you're not.

Are there going to be any "potential" convictions? How about that pizza you order for dinner sitting on your counter top? Is that a "potential" meal? Is Obama and McCain "potential" presidents, or are they just candidates?

Is a fart just a "potential" bowel movement, or is it is own thing?

Is this reporter's piece on this event a "potential" story, or did it actually make it to print?

Am I "potentially" disgusted with the gang situation, or am I just weighing the odds? Is the victim "potentially" dead, or can he be resuscitated. Is the mother "potentially" grieving, or are those real tears? (God bless her during this time of grief and loss.)

We DON'T need "anti-violence education programs." We DO NEED anti-criminal enforcement.

Are the police "potentially" enforcing the laws which are already on the books?

She Said wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:06 PM:He Said might be on to something here.

I wonder wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:56 PM:what ever happened to Victory Outreach. They used to be active in the streets. Reaching out to troubled youth, with street witnessing and powerfull plays and testimonies. Where are you guys?

Hey Minutemen wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:05 PM:Before you get all up in arms, I know all these kids. They were all born here. They are all citizens. Their parents are all citizens, either naturalized or native born. Sadly, there is no news here. Go look for a tragedy to exploit elsewhere.

Skip wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:14 PM:This "Gang Profile" they are talking is just like they have in Mexico.

We are not the first, Try reading the "Homicide Blog" in the Los Angeles Times.

In this country it is accepted for children under 18 to be children. ... Girls should not be getting married until they are at least 18, and boys should be supervised by their PARENTS.

an american citizen wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:25 PM:what in the hell is going on in are city streets? do we have to be so worried about some punk kids hurting are friends,and family? its time to protect are god given rights from these animals,and stand up against these cowards that have no life..

Skip wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:30 PM:Check the LOS Angeles Times "Homocide Blog". Stuff like this happens every day up there. It is only a matter of time before we degrade as much. Look at the ten most wanted list for Escondido, San Diego, or Los Angeles. You may detect a trend.

Freddy wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:39 PM:The problem is that the whole system has gotten too soft. Nobody is willing to throw the book at perpetrators; instead, they put them out on the streets in four years. Crack down hard, give them their day in court, and then show no mercy. Punks are running the show now. How long will we let this continue?

To He Said wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:45 PM:If you ever bothered to do a ride along or look into what enforcement is being done in Escondido, you would see that gang members are arrested as often as possible for anything possible. If you are pissed off about the gang problem, ask the court system why they are repeatedly released with few consequences, especially the juveniles. I agree, it's the job of the parents and schools to educate the kids about gangs. The police department's job is to protect the public...

To He Said wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:14 PM:... Go back to watching South Park and keep your bathroom humor to yourself. EPD does enforce the law and do a great job at it. Did you hear about the 2 homicides they solved this weekend? But what are we going to do fill all the jails with kids because they've been taken down the wrong path ...? Why don't we intervene while these kids are still kids and try to turn them around. Anti-gang programs need to be tried. We continue to have too many kids killed for no reason. Turn off the cartoons and be part of the solution.

Brian wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:14 PM:First off, my heart-felt sympathies go out to Eddie's family and friends. I send my thoughts and prayers of comfort and healing to those grieving his death.

Secondly, sad tragic stories like Eddie's just increase my response ability by providing more motivation for me to ensure the success of the national grassroots campaign to establish a Cabinet-level Department of Peace. There is actually a bill in Congress (HR808) intended to address the many-headed hydra of domestic violence of which gang participation is just one face. There are successful anti-gang participation programs such as the TKF program (Tariq Khamisa Foundation...) that a Department of Peace could help institute across this nation. The local San Diego group, the Americans for a Department of Peace..., exists and spends it time, money, and energy to help eliminate the loss of Eddie's across this nation and all of the attendant grief and suffering experienced by family, friends, and community.

I personally take stories like Eddie’s as a wake up call to transform my sorrow and grief into an ever-increasing National Will to address gang violence, domestic abuse, school bullying, and the many other violent heads of the hydra. There are plenty of effective Violence Reduction and Conflict Resolution programs across this nation that need the institutional heft and financial backing of a Cabinet-level Department of Peace. I'd rather spend $200 per student for a proven TKF anti-gang education school program, rather than $80,000 to $100,000 per year to incarcerate someone and add to our burgeoning $50 billion a year prison industry.

I suggest we get organized and use our Heads and our Hearts to reduce, if not completely eradicate, these senseless acts of violence that cause us pain and suffering and which are hitting our pocketbooks big-time.

Got Out wrote on Jun 30, 2008 11:04 PM:This is why I moved my family away from Esco after spending 18 years there. Too many gang bangers. After living on the north end of town for 16 years, all of a sudden gang activity increase, crime by illegals robbing people increased. It wasn't even safe to take a walk in the daytime anymore.
It's time to get serious about cleaning up the town.

EscoWatchDog wrote on Jul 1, 2008 3:17 AM:Prevention programs are very important too. How about the TKF Foundation? They do amazing work in the schools? Prevention programs should target the young, such as 5th graders and middle school. Talk to the kids before they even consider joining gangs.

Demand wrote on Jul 1, 2008 6:11 AM:your right to OPEN CARRY handguns! The way things have been going I only see the police after the crime has been committed.

How come wrote on Jul 1, 2008 6:57 AM:there aren't any gang members named Matthew, Bob, or Jeff. Hmmm, makes me wonder...

Law wrote on Jul 1, 2008 7:05 AM:In today’s world for us to succeed responsibility, discipline and education is paramount.
I see none of this in our society today.
Glorification of the gang culture on TV, video games “Grand Theft Auto”, and in song is counterproductive in any society, but we have plenty of that in the entertainment media. Just what kind of culture do you think that will generate?
What’s next a game for kids to play teaching them to be drug dealing gang members!
Take a good look around and you will see what that programming creates.
Inappropriate articles in the paper glorifying the heroic efforts of a 14 or 15 year old child with a baby.
Reporters quoting her drivel that she is going to finish high school and continue on to college to work for a better life just propagates the false likelihood of success to the other children in the school.
When you have kids having kids, their offspring have a high probability of becoming a gang member.
When you have uneducated low income adults trying to live above their means in an expensive area, no time will be spent to rear their children.
Once again society has another recruit for gang society.

Dont PARENTS wrote on Jul 1, 2008 7:06 AM:have ANY responsibility for their children any more or are we accepting different values now?

These fine young wrote on Jul 1, 2008 7:24 AM:upstanding citizens soon to be jaycee members fit a gang profile? I am shocked! This is Escondido, we have no gangs here, that is something you hear about in Los Angeles and Chicago with the MS13 running around, but not ESCONDIDO!

Youth feel being a criminal is a wonderful thing wrote on Jul 1, 2008 7:29 AM:Young criminals that don't do well in school and other areas discover that being part of a gang and shooting some (most likely in the back) gives them a sense of pride. Victims are usually unarmed and shot in the back by a young juvenile that wants to be a member of a gang. Sad that the only way these young thugs see themselves as successful is by murdering someone else.

Bev wrote on Jul 1, 2008 8:08 AM:And to say that Esco High District sees this crap on district campuses...DUH!!! Yeah, no doubt, because the schools aren't doing much to stop this from infiltrating our education system either. Riccuiti is one of the few that have tried to make a difference, but he can't do it alone. Get the gang members OUT of our schools and off of our streets...build a special little building 'just for them'....outcasts. If you're a 'known documented gang member' - then you're a known outcast and should be put away for life. Leopards don't change their spots.

Bad Habit wrote on Jul 1, 2008 8:17 AM:You are asking "why is this happening" well instead of turning a blind eye just look at society, look at tv, look at movies, and listen to parents of children saying "you police cannot touch my child". This "ME ME ME" society has been corrupted for years, ignoring dicipline and ethics. Years ago it was good to go to church and help people and parents would dicipline their children and teach them proper manners. Now it is ok to fight, use foul language, wear clothes that make you look like a whore and a gang banger. Now adays what is wrong "NOTHING" it is ok to do anything you want because nobody can tell you what to do. This society has been going down the toilet for a long time and only we can change that by opening our eyes and caring about other people instead of just our own selfish desires.

Rush wrote on Jul 1, 2008 8:36 AM:Let's get CCW laws passed that enable those of us who were not brought up with the Third World Mentality to protect ourselves. The death of this young man highlights the need for protection from those who flaunt our laws with impunity. Let us be on an equal footing.

LOL wrote on Jul 1, 2008 8:50 AM:To How come...

How come you don't do a little research before asking such a question?!? Makes me wonder. Anyways, here's a list of some caucasian gangs in California that most likely have members named Matthew, Bob, or Jeff...

-Aryan Brotherhood
-Hells Angels
-Nazi Lowriders
-Ku Klux Klan

I'm pretty sure there isn't an Aryan gang member named Jose or Eduardo.

Doesnt sound wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:00 AM:like the Gang Enforcement Unit is doing their job. 3 murders this year all related to gang activity? Sounds to me like the Gang Unit needs to get busy. Where are all the immigrants that come forward as long as you don't ask if they are illegal or not? It seems to be happening in their neighborhoods. Obviously that isn't working!

To How Come wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:05 AM:The gang bangers come in all colors and races. Lets see there is Tom, John(Metzgers), and Natha and Jeremiah two skinheads who murdered a West African Immigrant, and lets not forget Kyle, Ken, and Steve the skinheads who murdered an Ethiopian immigrant. It takes all kinds!!!

Lets build a fence wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:05 AM:around Los Angeles and throw all of the punks in there, we could make it into a reality show called "Escape from Los Angeles", where movie stars would battle the street gangs to escape. And to make it extra exciting, toss in the politicans. Arnie could do his terminator thingy.

to LOL wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:08 AM:Good point. I was actually thinking that right after I clicked the submit button. But the only ones we see commiting crimes around here ARE latino. I'm sure the "white supremacy" gangs do horrid stuff as well, I know they're chronic meth slingers, but how come we never here about their shenanigans? Bah, I'm an equal oppotunity hater, it just so happens that the demographics of my locale provide me with a racially specific group of people to be fed up with.

esco native wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:17 AM:I would judt like to how sorry I am for the parents and family of this young boy it was to soon for this child to be taken from them. The sad thing is we should not have to worry about going out late in the evening or even in the day we are giving in to the evil in this town.I have lived in Escondido for my whole life and things are getting worse and the sad thing is I am a latina and it hurst to say this but most of the crime in this town is done by latinos and against latinos! We wonder why people have a poor view of us as a whole.We latinos need to take a stand to those that are making us look bad and say enough!!As for the police I have seen some improvement but you know the area that most of these crimes happen there should be a patrol car on each end of the streets that these things are happening and people that look suspicious should be stopped and, questioned and searched, kids that are out late should be brought home to their parents.This needs to stop people I should not be afraid to take a walk with my son at sun down!! Lets put a stop to violance!!

Just going to get worse wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:20 AM:Economy is bad, no money, no jobs, greed, no parental supervision, racism, gangs, war. The youth of today see a bleak future and it's our fault!

Yeah whatever wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:23 AM:happened to the Police Chiefs theory that if his officers learned to speak spanish the officers would gain the latino trust and the latinos would tell the police all they know. Well Chief, get out there and start talking Espanol and find out who did this terrible thing.

esteban wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:35 AM:Folks, can't you see that it is totally acceptable in today's society to live the thug life? Thanks to MTV, Grand Theft Auto, 50 Cent and all that other trash pumped into our kids heads. Until the citizens get a spine, and order our lawmakers and cowardly liberal judges to make just being a gang member a life/capital offense, this kind of stuff will just have to be "par for the course". Wake up people. And stop blaming the cops. The ACLU has made putting someone in jail and very hard task. Thank them.

prof wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:36 AM:How many murders have been committed in Escondido this year by members of;

-Aryan Brotherhood
-Hells Angels
-Nazi Lowriders
-Ku Klux Klan

??????

Are there any members of those groups in Escondido? Are they organized in this city committing crimes? Are they the ones tagging everything in site?

Poor logic = a bad argument.

Joseph wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:44 AM:You can't bring a 3rd world mentality to a progressive society and expect these people to adapt. They have no role models and don't embrace the American culture and language. So what does everyone expect. Parent(s) are uneducated and therefor do not encourage education. Without education or goals there is no hope. These young people are going to waste time getting involved with other misguided youth in the neighborhood and end up in trouble or dead. Everyone can shout about public programs, police, and schools. But the bottom line is the parents who are having these kids. People come to this country looking for a better way of life. These people work menial jobs in a high cost of living environment. The parents end up having a few kids. Their lack of knowledge in how to really get ahead in this country just makes the family lag behind others in the country.

Look at the teen pregnacy rates and understand that this is a vicious cycle, there are kids having kids and the cycle is endless.

People like politicians are going to try and solve these problems by throwing every public assistance program to this class of people. But this will not work because this is a free ride and people just don't embrace something they get for free. Nobody looks at the "real" root of the problems here. Nobody wants to offend anyone because they will be labeled as either a racist or a race trader.

Yes, a kid died and thats a shame. But people should be able to debate about his death and what caused it without being called a racist. Although some of the comments sound cruel, they are in fact pretty real.

Incidents like this should be debated and people should not be shunned because they question the motives of the community. in this instance, Mexicans should be asking. What is going on with the community. Neighbors should be talking to each other and unacceptable behavior should not be accepted as the norm. Parents should let their kids wear the uniform of gangs. ... This is a prison attire that has attracted these lost kids.

In my opinion this is just the tip of the ice berg and I fear for the USA. So what do we do? People need to take responsibilty and raise their kids to have respect for themselves, family, country, and other people. Realize that people often have to work hard to attain certain things in life and nothing comes for free.

Parents wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:31 AM:Gangs don't take our kids , We give the gangs our kids.

To LOL et al wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:31 AM:Your argument is a strawman. We're talking about the propensity for gang members in Esco to be hispanic. This is the truth, and behaving like a bleeding-heart, pc idiot will not change the truth. Our politicians have allowed our southern border to vanish, and this is the price we the people are paying. Don't worry, though - the revolution is coming, and there will be blood in the streets. The elites have pushed the honest people to the edge, and they are tired of it.

RockSpringsActivist wrote on Jul 1, 2008 11:00 AM:There was a day when if you were pregnant at 15 or even 17 you lived in shame. You went away till the baby was born. Today, if you're 15 and pregnant, your relatives give you a baby shower.

There was a day when parents taught their children respect. Respect for police officers, teachers, elders and neighbors. Now I hear parents saying "stupid cop", calling their neighbors "morons" and calling their children's teachers "idiots".

Parents used to converse with their children; they used to teach them and spend time with them. Today parents give their children electronic toys so they can play games during dinner and disconnect from their families. Parents allow their children to run free at restaurants and malls instead of teaching them table manners and proper social behavior.

Parents are not parenting. Gangs are thriving. Schools are not parents or law enforcement. Don't have children if you are going to ignore them and expect everyone else to raise them and protect them. Just don't.

None wrote on Jul 1, 2008 11:27 AM:To: I Wonder

Victory Outreach has a church on Washinton Avenue near the Round Table. ot sure what they are doing, but back in my younger day's members of the church, used to roam the streets in search of connecting with troubled teens. Many of its member's are former gang members the decided to chage their lives. Now-a-days, you don't see them out as much as before.

Responsibility wrote on Jul 1, 2008 12:13 PM:Good grief. "Why aren't the police...?" "Why aren't the schools ...?" "Why aren't the outreaches ...?"

What about you parents? Why aren't YOU in your children's lives so that gangs won't be? How can relative strangers lead your child on the right path when you've abdicated all responsibility for the kids YOU bore?

Victory Outreach wrote on Jul 1, 2008 12:24 PM:We Are Still Here, But The City Of Escondido Makes It Very Hard For Us To Do Street Evanglisim, But You Will See On The Street More And More. VICTORY OUTREACH WILL NOT GIVE UP

Jose wrote on Jul 1, 2008 12:52 PM:If Victory Outreach roams the streets trying to help people they will get ticketed and sent on there way, it's illegal to solicit on the streets if you are not here illegally.
I agree with the ones that are saying it is the PARENTS responsibility. If you can't handle your kids, get some help, or expect tragedies like these to fill your lives.

Common Sense wrote on Jul 1, 2008 12:56 PM:the police can't stop gang activity, the neighborhood sure can. If you don't want gangs in your area get proactive and get your neighbors together and hang out on the corners they do and disrupt the comfort level for these guys.Some of you might even be spending more time with your kids in the process.

To Esco Native... wrote on Jul 1, 2008 1:04 PM:We have police on both ends of our street on a regular basis(nc times won't print street name or town) and it doesn't help one bit. When we had our electricity go out recently the gang members came out of the woodwork and the crime continues in our neighborhood. The gangs run the streets and are allowed to but at least they are "documented"!!!

To Just going to get worse wrote on Jul 1, 2008 1:14 PM:Our Fault? Beg your pardon, but I didn't do anything and I refuse to lower myself to your victim mentality.

I want to see all of the wrote on Jul 1, 2008 1:16 PM:parents do time, and I want the kids picked up by CPS!

Stephan wrote on Jul 1, 2008 1:32 PM:Unless you have ever lived in a "bad" neighborhood or a ghetto, most people cannot understand the mindset of the younger generation who live there.
These kids have a mentality that they have no future. They see life as short and they do not expect to live to be 25 or 30 years old. If you talk to these gangbangers, they all expect to be dead within a few years.
With that kind of thinking, it is easy to see why they think nothing of killing or be killed.
The street logic that is presented to the younger set who are not able to think through these things like a normal person is that why not sell drugs or steal to get rich. To them that is the only way they will ever "live large" in their view of their desperate lives.
Then top that off with their "role models" being the gang bosses driving Cadillacs and getting lots of girlfriends because they have lots of money from their illicit activities.
On the other side of the coin, they see their neighbors working their tails off for minimum wage and getting virtually no where in life. The choice becomes clear for many kids.
Take a chance and "live large" and maybe they will live THEIR version of the American dream. Of course, older more mature folks know that the only thing they are going to get in return is death or prison, but to these young unformed minds, it seems like the only chance they have to break out and "be somebody".
This is the kind of mentality that these programs need to address. You cannot just say that if you become a gangbanger, you are going to prison or will die. They already know that, but in their minds, that is better than living a long drudging life with virtually no respect or chance at doing any better.

Abiding_in_Jesus wrote on Jul 1, 2008 1:41 PM:Mark 16; [the scripture modern translation are leaving out of the bible.] THESE SIGNS SHALL FOLLOW them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with [them], and confirming the word with signs following. Amen. IF THE CHRISTIAN'S in this world , this city, this nation, would obey God's Word, put down their television sets, hummer's, alcohol, pornography, fornication, adultery etc...[Galations 5] and yes I said Christian's, Holiness would come back to the church, The Power of God would be seen in the earth, in our cities. It is our own fault that gays now have so many rights and that these children are in trouble and dying in front of our faces. The Church has dropped the ball and gone it's own way. When Church, will you repent? And BE Jesus to this world??? When you truly set aside your life and live Jesus' life? When will you lay your life down Christian's and walk in holiness. We should ALL be on the streets, not just Victory Outreach .

esco native wrote on Jul 1, 2008 1:42 PM:Maybe we should send all the gangs to fight the war if they want to fight they should not have a say in it just inlist them!! I am scared to have more kids I don't want them to be shot just for having brown skin,or wearing blue, or being on the wrong side of town!! It really sucks and something needs to be done! People if you see anything or anyone that looks like they are up to no good call the cops I do and come!

Victim mentality wrote on Jul 1, 2008 1:47 PM:It's your fault along with the rest of us because of just that, you (we) didn't do anything. We don't demand more from our elected officials, our schools, our kids or ourselves. We voted the[m] in office, we allow our schools to operate as they do, we spoil and/or neglect our kids, and we sit back, we allow all this to happen and then complain that it's happening. So please, lower yourself off your high horse and do something.

To Doesnt sound wrote on Jul 1, 2008 2:14 PM:Ignorant comment skippy! The EPD gang team works harder than you could ever imagine! They arrest and convict so many gangsters, you'd be suprised and terrified at the number. They can't be everywhere all time; but they sure try. As long as parents don't parent, death will continue. All EPD haters need to realize that these gangster kids are constantly being put in check and arrested; however since our juvenile justice system is severely broken, they are alomst immediatley released to thier parents. Thus, the cycle continues. You litteraly have to kill someone to get any length incarceration. GOOD JOB EPD Gang Team.

GET INVOLVED wrote on Jul 1, 2008 2:16 PM:This shooting happened in MY Neighborhood (just a couple of blocks away)For the last four years we have had an active neighborhood group working to help clean up our neighborhood. We work with city officials and the police dept. Unfortunately most of the residents in the neighborhood don't attend meetings and are not involved.
It's not where you live, but what you DO in your neighborhood to be a part of the solution and not the problem.
If we keep moving out of neighborhoods because they are going down hill because of the few bad people, We are saying here you go take it and do what you want.
ALL NEIGHBORHOODS WILL EVENTUALLY GO BAD! GET INVOLVED WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS, GET INVOLVED IN YOUR COMMUNITY AND LET THE PUNKS KNOW THEY ARE THE ONES WHO ARE GOING TO HAVE TO GO SOMEWHERE ELSE!
IF WE ALL DO THIS, THEY WILL HAVE NO PLACE FOR THEIR BAD BEHAVIOR!
I am so sorry to the family who lost their son. My prayers are with you!
I still feel safe here in MY NEIGHBORHOOD! AS SAFE AS I DO ANYWHERE IN THIS WORLD!

To Rock Springs Activist wrote on Jul 1, 2008 2:20 PM:Exactly!

LOL wrote on Jul 1, 2008 2:28 PM:To prof & "To LOL et al".....

"How come" had a simple question. I gave "How come" a simple answer! How can it be a bad argument when there was no argument to begin with? Sheesh!

Anyways, How come, I to am an equal opportunity hater! lol! I just thought that you were unaware that Tim's and Sean's can be gangsters too! I do understand law abiding citizens being fed with a particular group of people when when that particular group (in Escondido's case latinos) are causing most of the chaos.

januaryM wrote on Jul 1, 2008 2:30 PM:The gangs are recruiting your children from the Boys & Girls Club.Information I gathered from kids & gang members.Its been going on in Escondido for the last 30 years.Wake up....Escondido....the next drive by could be in your neighborhood! Can you say Compton?

TICTOC wrote on Jul 1, 2008 2:32 PM:I've been to prison and seen first hand how these "gang bangers" live and their mentality. They think it's cool to hate other gangs and when you think the way they do you, you find yourself back in the days when blacks and whites had problems living together. In other words they are not very educated for one. Most can't read or write and never finished high school but they will clown or make fun of others for the wrong reasons when in fact they are the losers in society. I believe the whole reason people get into gangs is because they have no self esteem and they want to be a part of something like a family. Maybe if the parents where more involved that would change. Maybe parents should go back to the old school style of punishing their kids. These kids are looking for the easy life when they should be mentored and helped. Get them through high school and college and you won't see them resorting to drugs and breaking the law.

Alejandro wrote on Jul 1, 2008 3:01 PM:Well I have read all the comments here and I agree with a majority of them. We can do all these great programs, march in the streets, and the police can arrest everyone but that is not going to stop the problems in the neighborhood.

This behavior starts in the home within the family. Parents need to be parents and not let this type of conduct get out of hand. I live in this area and see these parents just look the other way or are too busy with their other "little" kids to focus on the older ones.

It seems like once a kid turns 10 his parents no longer worry about him/her. They just become another hand to help out around the house. Many of these kids are not involved in extra curricular activities in school or after school sports. These kids are never immersed into the school or other positive influences like Boy/Girl Scouts.

It's very sad to see this but this is the way it is. I can't sit here and tell you this is easy..because it's not. I work and go to Palomar College. It has been hard because I have been picked on by most of these type of kids while I was in school and in the neighborhood. I just promised myself that I would be something some day and I know its all on me.

I have been fortunate to have some good people in my life who gave me good advice and help me keep my chin up when it's tough. A few of us make it out of these circumstances, but it's not easy. I would love to have a girlfriend and hang out and just have some friends, but to be honest with you I don't have time. My Uncle keeps telling me to work hard and some day things will be easy for me. I can't wait.

I don't really feel sorry for these guys who get shot. They brought it on themselves and most of them were mean people anyways.

To Hey Minutemen wrote on Jul 1, 2008 3:11 PM:Hey Minutemen[-] wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:05 PM: you are right these kids are being raised in our own backyards. This is an indictment on us as a society. We have forgotten what community means. We have forgotten that we have give of our time, resources and yes our money to improve the life of those around us. If we want safer and better neighborhoods than we need to step up to the plate and be a part of the solution, not just whine about the problem.

a lawyer wrote on Jul 1, 2008 3:19 PM:Where are the Men in these areas? "Respect" a term loosely and i mean very loosely used by PUNKS for the purpose of importance.You people live in fear and deservre what your WILLING to endure.Come to my neighborhood punk and you will be leaving in a body bag. Thats how we play in the good hood.

to lawyer wrote on Jul 1, 2008 3:39 PM:are you one of those good gangsters that drive a porche...?? I'm confused by your statement there

a lawyer wrote on Jul 1, 2008 3:55 PM:Take your area back. Man up to these punks. Where are the men in these neighborhoods, this would never get a foothold were I live. It's a level of tolerance that is acceptable. Confusion conquered?

Gary wrote on Jul 1, 2008 4:11 PM:Very sad to see the gang violence in escondido, it used to be the trouble we got into with police was playing rock,nroll music at friends parties. (Most of us are still pro musicicans around San Diego. Wake up parents don't let your kids be in gangs.
Make sure they stay in school.I am temporarily in Dido but am moving ASap
very sad such a nice town is changing for the worse. I agree lock up the gang memebers and don't let them out ever.

To a Lawer wrote on Jul 1, 2008 4:12 PM:The men in those areas are in prison. Next question.

to Jose wrote on Jul 1, 2008 4:16 PM:So now V.O. is scared off the streets by the threat of tickets? I thought you were radical and harcore, not afraid of anything. I guess you will be changing the name to just "Victory".

To januaryM wrote on Jul 1, 2008 4:25 PM:Gangs are recruiting kids from anywhere and everywhere! Public Schools, Television, after school programs, daycare etc. Every time our children are in the world among other people. A Strong Home Live with Parents actually raising their OWN Kids is the Gang Education Deterrent!
My son was going to public school, he hung out with kids at school that were into the "gang banging." He was a wanna be tagger, then he got jumped on his way home in the middle of the day a few blocks from our house. He didn't know the guys, they thought he was someone else. Beat you up now ask questions later.
Good out of bad- He was no longer a "Wanna be" He went to independent study started getting straight A's again graduated high school, is now 20 years old working and stays out of trouble.
Stay at home MOM and a stable home life supported him. We never allowed him to be a wanna be gang banger at home, He was doing it in school, where we were not.
Bad influences are everywhere!

Walk like a Gangbanger... wrote on Jul 1, 2008 5:23 PM:Dress like a Gangbanger, get treated like a gangbanger.
When the dad says "he had friends who were in gangs but he wasn't" he really means "He probably was a gangbanger, I just didn't act like a father and do something about it."
They showed a photo of him on the news last night and he was posing and dressed just like a Gangbanger.

to Alejandro wrote on Jul 1, 2008 5:41 PM:Good for you Alejandro, be your own man and continue on your path.
It might not seem like things are changing for you now, but it will and soon you will be looking back with pride in yourself and your future family.

Law

Lisa wrote on Jul 1, 2008 6:20 PM:Gang bangers are losers and have no self respect! They walk around looking tough with their tattoo's and their mean stare. They are just terrorists and I have no more respect for them than the Alah idiots blowing themselves up in Iraq.

To both He Said replies wrote on Jul 1, 2008 6:52 PM:What does South Park and a ride along with the police have to do with my comments?

If you would read my comments in context, you will see I was being facetious to illustrate a point--- how asinine this quote was:

"For police, the primary response to gang activity is enforcement, Kearny said. Something as basic as enforcing curfews can keep young potential victims and potential criminals away from one another, he said."

Let me spell this out in a way that perhaps even you guys can understand. IF there were no criminals, there would be no victims. Therefore, it makes sense to get rid of--- or at least reduce the number of--- criminals.

Like I mentioned, we need anti-criminal enforcement. We need to enforce the laws already on the books.

Oh, and I asked "Are the police ‘potentially’ enforcing the laws which are already on the books?" because many of the gang members are here in this country illegally.

I had a nice conversation with a police officer from Escondido a while back. I asked the officer about what can be done, etc... I also asked why they do not arrest illegal aliens, let alone contact ICE; the officer said they did not have such authority.

I replied "Sure you do, EVERY law enforcement official has not only the Federal authority, but the mandate--- from the highest F.B.I. agent, to the lowest small town officer in the smallest hick town."

I then quoted where they get both the mandate and authority from. (I'm not going to give it to you here--- do your homework, oh ye who accuse me of bathroom humor and watching too much South Park!)

This officer then let out a tremendously heavy sigh, and told me "You are right. We do have both the mandate and the authority to deport. But we have orders from both the mayor's office and police chief not to do so, to take a hands-off approach in this area because we do not have the infrastructure to hold the number of illegal aliens we would arrest if our hands were not tied."

This officer then told me that if I mentioned their name, they would deny what they just said.

So, EXACTLY how are citizens supposed to "get involved" if those who are charged with our protection have their hands tied? What good is a ride along then? To witness (forced) inaction firsthand?

The second comment to me said "Turn off the cartoons and be part of the solution."

Please list the "solution" for me. (I can't turn off the cartoons, though... I don't watch them. Kind of difficult to stop something you don't do in the first place.)

There IS a solution. Enforce the laws which are already on the books. Quit tying the hands of our law enforcement officers, and allow them to do their job--- EVERY aspect of it.

GET RID OF THE UNDERLYING ISSUES if you want to get rid of the gang problem.

Lack of money isn’t the issue, as I grew up dirt poor.

One parent households isn’t the issue-- my father died when I was 5.

Environment isn’t the issue. My older brother was heavily into drugs, and I abhor them.

Education isn’t the issue. I grew up with a learning disability. Through hard work I overcame it and became the first of my family to earn a college degree. (And not from some diploma mill either.)

Abusive home situations isn’t the issue. I was abused. I didn’t turn around and start gang banging or beating people up, or stealing things, or destroying property. I stopped the cycle.

The issue, in my opinion, is lack of morality being taught from SOMEWHERE. If not the home, if not the family, at least in the schools. But no, you can’t do that these days in school. It is all outcome-based education and ethics.

So before you start tooting your horn at me, read what I wrote again. I was exploring how asinine Sgt. Kearny’s statement and logic was.

I do applaud the police for capturing the killers this week. But I would applaud louder if they were allowed to do the full range of their duties, which include illegal immigration enforcement. Such actions could prevent future killings from occurring because the criminal gang bangers would not be here in the first place.(We have enough criminals in our own country, we don't need to be importing them from other countries.)

A citizen wrote on Jul 1, 2008 6:54 PM:Screwed up kids and there actions starts at home. Parents need to know where there kids are all the time. Walking the streets at 15 is asking for trouble. These parents need to wake up and realize the actions of your
kids starts at home. You are to blame.

ylekiote wrote on Jul 1, 2008 7:34 PM:Alejandro, you have something valuble. Its called honor. For that you get my respect. That is something these gangbangers all say they want (respect). But they will never have because they lack honor. Keep up the good work.

Notice ... wrote on Jul 1, 2008 8:47 PM:when these gang crimes happen, they are usually carried out by more then 2 or 3 people against a single person standing on his own, these gang members are nothing more then cowards, they team up and start crap only when they know the odds are in their favor and wouldn't dare to take on anyone 1 on 1, they pull this crap to make themselves look bigger and badder in the eyes of those they hang with, only way to beat this mentality is to take them down as hard and permanent as possible....we put wild and rabid animals down all the time, how are any of these bastards any different, other then they walk on 2 legs..????

EscoWatchDog wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:32 PM:To How Come: How about the minutemen, they are a gang too. It's due time people start looking at groups who do harm and cause trouble as gangs too, not just young Latino kids. Geez. I like the point that was made about the KKK folks, they are definetely gangs to say the least.

Parents... wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:45 PM:need to quit blaming everyone but themselves for their problem child. I don't want to play wonder parent here, but what happened to dinner time together, or a 15 year old being in bed by 9 or 10 or maybe 11 on weekends. It's tough being a parent and just makes a person wonder what goes wrong when kids resort to this lifestyle. Come on people, be there for your kids.
Talk to them all the time and see what is going on in their lives. They will talk to you. Let them know you care.

To Alejandro... wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:22 PM:Keep up the good work, my friend. Good things will come to you. I will keep you in my thoughts.

Regarding both He Said replies wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:37 PM:This is a pipe dream if you think local cops are going to arrest illegal aliens. Do I think it should be done, absolutely. But seriously do you want EPD to be the Immigration Police? I did a ride along with those guys and there aren't that many officers out there on any given shift.

So let's say they go out and bust some illegal and drive him to the border or take hime to a Federal Jail. That officer will be out of service for several hours if not more. I would rather the officers being used on going after the violent crimes, etc. What about 911 calls? Who is going to those calls. What about if your kid is missing or your car is stolen? Who will handle these calls when everyone is out there busting illegals.

I suggest you go out and do a ride along and see what it's all about. This is unfortunately a Federal issue that needs the government attention. Though, if you want EPD to double or triple their force to go after illegals, you can pay for it out of your taxes.

I do think it's a problem but this an overwhelming problem that no city is equipped to handle. Trust me most cops wouldn't would love to go out and arrest illegals, but it's just not realistic.

I think everyone needs to write to their elected official in Washington and express your concerns.

KRIS wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:43 PM:HAPPY BIRTHDAY EDDIE
WE ALL LOVE YOU N MISS YOU
THEY HAD SOMETHING FOR YOU AT YOUR HOUSE TODAY
IF YOU COULD SEE HOW MANY PEOPLE WERE THERE
U WOULD OF SEEN HOW MANY PEOPLE LOVED YOU N ARE NOW MISSING YOU
REST IN PEACE EDDIE
WE ALL LOVE N SOME DAY WE'LL MEET AGAIN
LOVE YOU

esco teacher wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:45 PM:kids in schools are now expected to go to college...there is no allowance for those who want to train to train for a vocational job...no time to take woodshop or agriculture because they are so busy trying to pass algebra and the exit exam classes....by 11th grade these students are already labeled failures and they act as failures...a life of jail time is a way out of underemployment and child support payments....the system is sick and contributes to the popularity of gang involvement....the schools don't help when students are constantly given extra chances because of the paperwork and time involved in the expulsion process...

To EscoWatchDog wrote on Jul 2, 2008 6:48 AM:Open border policies are what caused Escondido to turn into a toilet.
The MM are the alarm system for this country, and they have alerted us to the problem's on the border and unchecked immigration's disastrous effect in border towns.
Escondido is a crime infested example of our complacency towards unregulated immigration. Your watch dog skills need adjustment, open your eyes.
The MM are not enforcers, they are the Paul Revere's of the southern border.

To A Lawyer wrote on Jul 2, 2008 7:01 AM:You really don't sound like a lawyer. You blog big but you sound like the kind of guy who would soil himself in a real confrontation with a gang-banger. If you're really a lawyer and really advocating vigilantism you should be disbarred.

Please allow me to repeat myself wrote on Jul 2, 2008 7:34 AM:The Minutemen have done NOTHING to curb illegal immigration!!! They have do nothing but divide our communities with fear and suspicion!!! These kids were being raised in our own backyards. This is an indictment on us as a society. We have forgotten what community means. We have forgotten that we have give of our time, resources and yes our money to improve the life of those around us. If we want safer and better neighborhoods than we need to step up to the plate and be a part of the solution, not just whine about the problem. The Minutemen are nothing more than a bunch of gangbangers they are certainly not the Paul Revere's of the 21st Century, they are thugs and nothing more. Why has this issue become a discussion on illegal immigration? Oh I know why the victim has a Latino surname and we all know that equals illegal immigrant. Ridiculous!!!

To Please allow me to repeat myself wrote on Jul 2, 2008 8:21 AM:Wow, equating the MM to gang bangers is so hateful and demeaning of their just and righteous cause.
But you know, I have never read in this paper about the MM (1) shooting illegal’s, (2) stabbing illegal’s, (3) clubbing illegal’s. Isn’t that what gang bangers do, shoot or stab! Oh maybe they sell drugs like your gang bangers. Nope have not seen that reported about either.
Could be in your world the sign “MM” reminds you of the tragic day M&M’s melted in your pocket running your dress. Well I guess that must have been quite traumatic and embarrassing to you.

Please allow me to repeat myself again wrote on Jul 2, 2008 9:42 AM:What on earth are you talking about? Do you even know? Do you mean ruining my dress? If the truth hurts, sorry!! Please the MM's are not righteous nor are they just!!! I can only say just because they don't get arrested for the law breaking things they do, does not make them innocent. The day will come when law enforcement will be forced to enforce the laws even it means they will have to arrest their best friends, the minutemen. The MM's are just lucky not righteous. The day will come!!! Remember O.J. did it!! Just because he was found not guilty did not make him innocent same thing with the MM's.

I know he wasnt wrote on Jul 2, 2008 3:29 PM:Danny Medina wasn't a gang member.

To Please Allow me to repeat... wrote on Jul 2, 2008 3:43 PM:You have a bad chip on your shoulder.

Victory Outreach wrote on Jul 2, 2008 9:29 PM:Victory Outreach Is Going Out To The Streets everyday. And We Are Not Located At Washingtion Any More We Are At The Center Of The Arts In Escondido And We Will Not Give Up Going to The Streets

Fed Up wrote on Jul 3, 2008 10:26 AM:I'm not prejudiced, I hate everyone equally!

Roberto wrote on Jul 3, 2008 7:19 PM:After reading through your accepted for posting comments...I suggest the NCT post an aplogy for the RACIST, Anti-Mexican comment allowed posted by the XENOPHOBES and the likes of hate groups like the Minute men.

Education wrote on Jul 3, 2008 8:32 PM:Maybe some of you Victory Outreach people should take some classes in propper grammer. It would be a good thing if you guys went out to the area where the kid was killed, if you have'nt already.

To Roberto wrote on Jul 4, 2008 1:08 PM:Is XENOPHOBE the one word you learned this year?

American wrote on Jul 5, 2008 6:42 AM:Escondido’s crime ridden areas are in fear of contacting the Law due to the fact a large number of these residents are illegal or harboring illegals.
The know if they report a crime to the police they could be discovered and sent back across the border. The whole area was transformed into crime town by the illegal’s own making!
What good is deporting a gang banger, just to see him back in the community in less then a week! And now he is looking for the snitch, and that snitch is you.
So you keep quite and hence the ghetto continues.
This is precisely why we need tight border security, to protect us from disease, terrorists and criminal gang bangers. Cry all you want but it is a problem of the liberals design. I feel sorry for the people who have immigrated here legally, for if the illegals weren’t here Escondido would be the nice place it used to be.
Now it’s like the slums of LA and that hole south of the border.

To American wrote on Jul 5, 2008 10:01 AM:There is truth in what you say. At the same time there are plenty of "holes", as you call them in this country that are soley white american. Trailer trash is the name for them. There is plenty of crime and drugs there also. Not all of mexico is a hole buddy. You obviously have never seen any of it besides T.J.

Gringo wrote on Jul 6, 2008 11:50 AM:Quit tring to defend Mexico and your illegal invaders. You're not wanted here period, end of story. Go back, or be physically put back. Cause it's coming soon.

westside wrote on Jul 6, 2008 11:51 PM:To Education:

Why don't you take some spelling classes?
1. grammar - not grammer
2. proper - not propper
3. haven't - not haven't

Victory Outreach people work to improve the community, so stop insulting them.

To Gringo wrote on Jul 7, 2008 8:23 AM:We were here way before you. That's why all the city names are in spanish. I'm not defending illegals, only making a point that there are some ignorant biggots that like to put down Mexico so they can feel better about their racist selves.