Action News, KSBY.com

Tuesday, March 24, 2009 Reported by: Danielle Lerner

Lompoc police officers and residents are coming

together to combat gang violence.

Back in January 14-year-old Danny Rodriguez was shot and killed in the street. Two days later a second shooting at a vigil in his honor injured a 19-year-old man.

Investigators say both incidents are gang related.

On Tuesday night the Lompoc Police Department hosted a community meeting to educate and empower the public. Officers say parents are the first line of defense when it comes to gang prevention.

The shooting death of 14-year-old Danny Rodriguez sent an entire community into mourning. It hit too close to home for Stephanie Garcia, her son was in the same physical education class as Danny.

"It's heartbreaking, you know. It's like, how did this happen?" Garcia said.

That question brought Garcia and dozens of other residents to Tuesday night's meeting. Officers say it is a chance to answer questions and work together.

"Cops can't be everywhere at one time, so we really need the public's support," Sgt. Nate Flint of the Lompoc Police Department said.

Residents learned the history of Lompoc's most prominent gangs and took notes on how to spot gang activity. From graffiti to gang signs, officers say awareness is the key to prevention, especially when it comes to your kids.

"Parents really need to keep an eye on their kids and they need to be nosy. They need to be in there, asking the questions and observing what their kids are doing," Flint said.

Organized activities are another tool for keeping kids out of trouble.

All small steps to solving a big problem, as cops and citizens work to create a safer community for your family.

"I'm definitely going to be more aware and I think I'll bring that to my family, my son, my friends," Garcia said. "You know, my family."

Officers rely on residents to report suspicious activity and callers can remain anonymous.

Since the January shootings, officers have increased patrols and issued search warrants for eleven known gang members.

Investigators are still searching for suspects in the Rodriguez murder.