State Lawmakers Look To Address Gang Problems

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- State lawmakers say most of the money to fight gangs in Oklahoma goes to Oklahoma and Tulsa counties and they're looking to spread the funds to more areas of the state. While

Monday, April 30th 2007, 9:11 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- State lawmakers say most of the money to fight gangs in Oklahoma goes to Oklahoma and Tulsa counties and they're looking to spread the funds to more areas of the state. While gang activity varies from a big problem to virtually nonexistent in rural cities the lawmakers say the increase in gangs statewide is becoming a problem.

Police in Lawton say a recent report from federal prosecutors shows the city has a higher percentage of gang members than Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

State Representative T.W. Shannon is sponsoring a bill to create a committee of law enforcement and community leaders to work together in towns where gang violence is rising.

And state Representative Richard Morrissette is offering a bill to create a gang task force and address housing, education, after-school activities and to educate parents about gangs.