When you think of gangs, you might think of L.A., New York, or Chicago. But Greenville County Sheriff Steve Loftis says think again. The county's top cop says gangs are alive, and growing and Greenville. "I think gangs are in every community throughout the United States," Loftis says. As proof, he laid guns, drugs, and thousands in cash Thursday. It's all the result of a 9 week sweep by Greenville's gang task force. Loftis is hoping it sends a message. "Gangs are not welcome in Greenville County and if you commit a crime as a gang member, you will end up in jail."
In this sweep alone, 184 people were arrested. 101 of those were official gang members. Deputies discovered 54 active gangs in local neighborhoods. The Sheriff says they're recruiting new members ever day, and the recruits can be even more dangerous. "They're the guys that want in, they're on the outside looking in, they see the money, the cars, the girls," says Lt. Jim Burriss with the Vice and Narcotics unit.
Still, membership is not a crime. The Sheriff says that's why he needs the community's help. "You can contact your legislators encouraging them to pass laws making gang membership a criminal offense." He's calling on neighborhoods too, urging residents to look out for gang activity. "Will we ever rid Greenville County of gangs," he asks. "Absolutely not. But we're going to continue to try really hard."
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