The LA Times reports that $2.5 million dollars will be handed out by the Federal Government to battle gang violence in Los Angeles, specifically for three public housing projects with the deadliest statistics.
“U.S. Atty. Gen. Alberto R. Gonzales said the money will pay for gang prevention programs at the Imperial Courts, Nickerson Gardens and Jordan Downs housing projects, all in South Los Angeles.
The funds also will support stepped-up prosecution of gang criminals and other efforts, such as job assistance and mental health treatment, to help offenders who return from incarceration.
“There is no future in being a member of a gang,” said Gonzales, who made the announcement during a national gang summit attended by mayors from around the country. “Gangs are shattering the hopes of young people who succumb to their false promises.”
$2.5 million dollars to save the lives of young Americans in our poorest areas. Two point five million. You can’t even buy a three bedroom home in Beverly Hills with that money. How can you expect to make a dent with this penny-pinching amount? There is nothing so frightening as our government pretending to help its own citizens.