New Plans In Works To Prevent Gang Activity In Raleigh

The Raleigh Police Department and the Raleigh City Council want to wipe out the symbols of gang violence and gang activity.

In April, retired teacher

Shirley Newkirk

was randomly shot and killed in her own driveway. Police have not officially said the murder was gang-related, but detectives said the three young men charged with her murder technically fit the definition of a gang.

Solutions proposed by Raleigh police include an ordinance that would require auto body shops to report cars with gun shots and a promotional campaign for the agency's new gang hotline.

City councilman Michael Regan wants to see more officers in the Raleigh Police Department's gang unit and the backing from the City Council to make it happen.

"I think it's the city council's fault that we're putting up with this in the city. I think it's our fault that we have to lock our doors at night and lock our car doors," he said.

"I think we need to squash the bad guys like roaches," said city councilor Philip Isley.

If you think there is gang activity in your neighborhood, Raleigh police want you to call

(919) 256-0919.