Due to the recent murders in Sunset Park involving Mexican gang
members, the 72nd Precinct will be hosting a forum with police
officials, clergy, and former gang members in an effort to educate
parents.

After talking to some of the parents of both the victims and
perpetrators, Deputy Inspector Jesus "Raul" Pintos, Commanding Officer with the 72nd Precinct, realized that some of these parents are in denial or
simply unaware of their kid's affiliation with local gangs.

According to Deputy Inspector Pintos, "one mother didn't know that her son was in a gang despite
countless gang tattoos all over his body. I feel that these parents
need to know what to look for, including tattoos and gang signs."

The 72nd Precinct is scheduling guest speakers from the NYPD's Gang Division (Det
Ramos, from Queens Gang, an expert in Hispanic gangs). Also, former
gang members (we have a few that are willing to speak) and family
members of victims of gang violence. In addition, Ointos will address the
attendees as will the youth officers from the 72nd Precinct.

The forum is scheduled for
October 15 at 6:30 PM at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, located 545 60th
Street (between 6th and 7th Avenues).