Seattle/King County Gang Prevention & Outreach Work Group

In July 2007, King County Superior Court, in collaboration with the City of Seattle, held a one day Gang Prevention & Outreach Seminar for Juvenile Justice Professionals, community providers, law enforcement, school representatives and City of Seattle staff.  Over 250 youth service providers attended to learn about what resources are available to work with youth who are at risk, to become involved with, or who are already involved with gangs.  Juvenile Court Services reconvened the individuals who coordinated the Seminar and established the Seattle/King County Gang Prevention & Outreach Work Group.  This group is comprised of professionals from Juvenile Court Services, City of Seattle, City of Seattle Police Department, Seattle University and King County-Community Services Division.  The Work Group meets on a regular basis and is currently working on developing strategies and recommendations for gang prevention/intervention implementation.

MISSION STATEMENT

The Seattle/King County Gang Work Group supports a balanced strategy of prevention, intervention and suppression to reduce the impact of street gangs in our communities.  Prevention strategies focus on dissuading youth from the gang lifestyle and providing access to positive resources.  Intervention services focus on getting youth out of gangs and providing positive lifestyle alternatives.  Suppression strategies focus on creating safer communities by enforcing laws to eliminate criminal activity.