Cracking down

IT stands as a paradigm of being tough on crime. According to Chief Inspector Gordon Cummings of Strathclyde Police, time is running out for violent and disorderly gang members who think they can terrorise communities. Why should a small minority blight the lives of the decent, hard-working residents of communities where gang activity drags down the quality of life? The question has particular relevance in those areas where poor health, limited education and employment opportunities and a depressing environment conspire not only to stack the odds against the decent, law-abiding majority but also contribute to higher levels of criminal activity among a hardened minority.