Delta Police caution youth and parents about gang recruitment

This media release is shared via Delta Police

With school out for the summer, it’s a time where police typically ask parents to ensure kids are aware of safe biking practices and water safety along with other warm weather tips.

However, in light of recent gang violence in Metro Vancouver, Delta Police School Liaison Officers want to share some additional cautions and advice for parents and guardians.

“Our officers acknowledge that over the summer gangs and criminals remain active, trying to pull in new and young members into their ranks, promising wealth and stature,” says Cris Leykauf, spokesperson for Delta Police.

“We want to ensure youth and their families have the necessary information to protect themselves through the summer and into the new school year.”

STUDENTS:

• DO NOT be tempted into making easy or quick money by people you know or have recently met – money is earned through legitimate means;
• BEWARE of people you do not know or have not seen in a long time reaching out to you through social media asking you if you want to make money or do favors for cash even if the request doesn’t appear to be criminal;
• DO NOT be tempted to getting into vehicles or hanging out socially with people you know or suspect are involved in criminal activity or gangs – You may fall victim of violence due to association;
• BEWARE of friends or associates dressing in expensive clothes, driving or are passengers in expensive vehicles when you know they do not have the means to have that lifestyle;
• TRUST your feelings, if it doesn’t feel or look right it probably isn’t; and
• REMEMBER: Gang life is a sure way to end your life – Do not become a statistic.

PARENTS:

• BEWARE of your children(s) friends who are wearing clothes or driving cars if you know they DO NOT have the means or job to possess such things;
• BEWARE if your child begins or show that he / she has significant cash and possessions over a short period of time when you know they do not have the means;
• BEWARE if your child has mail or packages addressed and shipped to the family residence without an explanation as to the contents;
• BEWARE if your child begins to isolate themselves from the family or does not introduce their friend group to you; and
• BEWARE if your child changes friend groups rapidly and without rationale.

The above tips are not exhaustive but the Delta Police Department encourages everyone to be vigilant, to make sure our youth stay away from the gang lifestyle.

We are also aware of the difficulties that our young people face every day when trying to make the right life decisions as they can be influenced for the good and bad of society daily through the various media platforms. We are here to help.

If you or someone you know may have become involved in the gang lifestyle and are in need of assistance please contact the Delta Police Department at 604-946-4411 or remain anonymous through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477.

The Delta Police Department would like to wish the students and parents of the community a fun and healthy summer 2018.