Stop Making Excuses for L.A.’s Gangbangers

Deliesh Allen-Roberts is dead. There was a vigil asking for the violence to stop in South-Central L.A. In the article “Acting on the Outrage” (March 25), I read the comments of people saying we need to find a way to reach the hearts of these gang members. This is a fact. The gang members here in South-Central are of the same mind-set as the insurgents in Iraq. I have heard for years from so-called black leaders as to why these boys turn to gangs. As a black American, I do not buy into this.

Now the black community has to say enough is enough. There is no reason for gangs to exist among the many decent people of South-Central. The Police Department needs to be allowed to do its job, to be aggressive in performing their duties. Yes, some officers will step over the line, and when that happens, they will be dealt with.

The gangs will not change. They are laughing at the people who come to these vigils and know that these same people are willing to excuse any crime they commit and that, if innocent Angelenos are shot and killed when gangs commit their crimes, these same people will gather around and complain of racism.

When I drive through Los Angeles, I worry about a bullet slamming through my window and killing me or my wife. I pray for this young lady’s family and for my former neighborhood, where I have so many fond memories from my childhood.

Russell J. Givens Jr.

Los Angeles