ILLEGAL BEHAVIOR

Many risky behaviors can lead to legal risks. Getting involved with the wrong crowd, gangs, taking part in vandalism all carry high risk and high repercussions when caught.

Topics

Vandalism

Vandalism is the willful destruction or defacing of property, and IT IS A CRIME. The damage done is often very expensive to repair and makes our communities unattractive and unsafe. It isn’t a cool thing to do to the people who live there.

Vandalism is a criminal offense. If you are convicted, it could result in imprisonment for up to 10 years.

Gangs

A gang is a group of peers that hang out and take part in illegal, violent or criminal activity together. Often they have a name or symbol that represents them. They may also choose to wear a certain type of clothing or to display some other item that reflects of what gang they are a part.

Teens join gangs for many reasons. Sometimes they are thrill-seeking while others are looking for prestige, protection, a chance to make money, or a sense of belonging. Most often individuals are not forced to join gangs, and they can refuse to join without fear of retaliation.

Avoiding Illegal Behavior

There are many ways you can avoid legal behavior. Here are a few tips….

  • Find positive ways to spend your time and energy. If you are looking for a purpose or a way to belong, there are many options besides joining a gang. Try sports or recreational and after-school programs. They’ll give you a chance to meet new people with similar interests, while exploring and honing new interests and skills.
  • Stay away from gangs and gang members and be aware of local gangs’ symbols, clothing and colors. Steer clear of misrepresenting yourself as a gang member by appearing to be one of them– this can lead to you being an innocent target.
  • Carrying a weapon is not likely to make you safe, so don’t carry one.
  • If you feel threatened by someone or are in immediate danger contact someone you trust as soon as possible (parent, school administrator, coach etc.). Don’t take matters into your own hands. Be safe by staying in groups and avoid being along if you feel threatened.
  • Report any suspicious activity you see, and join or help set up, a group that works to get rid of gangs and stops vandalism in your school or community.