By John Zarchen
Santa Monicans have two serious problems: gang violence and putrid by-products of an increasing homeless population. I suggest that the gangs should direct their intimidating antics not towards each other, but at the homeless and those who attract them to our city by feeding them like pigeons in Trafalgar Square.
This solution would achieve several objectives: get the crusaders and the homeless out of our city and create an opportunity for the gang members to have positive influence on the community. Recently, Officer Sky from SMPD responded to a call from me about a violent homeless trespasser in our neighborhood. I witnessed Officer Sky's professional and firm handling of the trespasser (who was a convicted burglar and on probation!). Young men seeking to prove their manhood should follow Officer Sky's example and help rid our streets of filth like this burglar! Don't fight with rival gangs, guys, fight back the freeloaders who have invaded your turf!
So, gang members of Santa Monica, rally! Retake the streets! Make them safe for your mothers and fathers and girlfriends and wives and children! Boot out the invaders from Burbank and Glendale and Pacoima who feed and attract the vagrants and bums! Frighten the burglars out of our city! Use your muscle, use your anger! Rise up and cure us from this scourge!
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on July 22, 2003. Read the original PDF.