Robert Gipson, 23

ma cuzzin was the best man...we gone miss him!!sumthings shouldnt have happen but they did nd now we got to deal wit the lost of ma cuzzin!!robert was a good person...he had 3 kids that need they daddy n now they dont have him!!!will thats all i have to say...ily robert da family gone miss yu!!

ma cuzzin was the best man...we gone miss him!!sumthings shouldnt have happen but they did nd now we got to deal wit the lost of ma cuzzin!!robert was a good person...he had 3 kids that need they daddy n now they dont have him!!!will thats all i have to say...ily robert da family gone miss yu!!

How can Robert be a good person when he was a gangster that was terrorizing the community and engaging in gunfights with rivals?

This individual made some very poor choices in life. Among them being a gangster with children.

The only good thing about this crime was no one other than the two sociopaths were killed.

Hey Cuzzin!! I wished I could have said good bye..I love you so much & can't stop thinking about this situation that accured...No-one is perfect & we all make wrong choices..I just wished God had giving you more time to change.. You will truely be missed Robert...no more pain,,,Rest In Peace..Love ya

Watt up jok just sitn here thinkn of u man u will be missed everybody is intitled to there opinion but we know who u are and what u was about just know I love u and ur never forgotten

well these two idiots are burning in hell together. guys like these to idiots (gipson, mendoza) make the H R possible. he could have shot an innocent person that day. Im tired of you ghetto ass family members talkin bout how a dead family member or friend was gona change their life around or was gonna ill be 28 yrs old this year im black and im still in the hood, mlk and pch in long beach, and i plan on living my life till im an old old man, and i dont need thug shooting up and down the street sticking his chest out like he doing somthing

Robert was my brother and I loved him unconditional.....so don't sit in call us a ghetto family because our love is unconditional......people make wrong choices iam pretty sure u have......my brother was a fun and loving soul......I would do anything....I mean anything to get my brother back.......so for all yall that claims to do no wrong or maked bad choices go to he**......I love u Robert and u will always be remember.....rest in peace u are safe now.........

First off..U tryna do a job that's not yours to do..only god can judge..all yall sitting here acting like yall don't sin..my lil brother was a good person..he jus made a bad choice..im 28 too.. I'll be 29 in june.. I take care of my self I don't have no kids..I graduated high school and i went to college.. I been working since I was 16..so for u to sit here and stay my family is ghetto is so dam childish..u don't know nothing about us..u have no right to judge me, my family or my brother.. Ppl make mistakes and he made one that caused him his life..He's not in hell boo boo but u can go..he made it through them gates..he had time to repent..I don't expect u to understand..your not who he had to answer to anyway.. I love you robert and I will miss you..I know the type of person you was so that's all that matters I will see you when I make it home bro but until then...im goin to pray for them because they don't understand and im going to pray that they will never have to go through the pain that we are goin through..

shawnie, doesnt it bother you your brother put the public into extreme risk by engaging in a gun battle while driving his car?

I will be extremely judgemental about the deceased considering what he did.

We only know what we read and no one know what really happened but them......some could be true some false.....all I do know is I love my family unconditional good n bad.....my brother maked a very bad choice but I still love him and I do thank god that no else got hurt for them two making bad choices........no one could ever change my mind about my brother cuz besides the bad choice he maked that night he was an loving person and will always be my brother...... I love u Robert......rip

R.I.P Rob

shawnie, at least you do acknowledge your brother did make some bad choices.

You gotta be kidding me folks! Here we have two gang banging thugs shooting it out in public from moving vehicles and you're talking about 'wrong choices'!? Give me a break. This is the most childish destructive irresponsible behavior I can imagine and whether you want to admit it or not, it's a very good thing that both of these scumbags met their demise here before some innocent person gets killed from their foolishness. What the heck's wrong with people like this?

well ma brother is not a scumbag he is a human being and he was a good person and I love him to death and cant no one tell me different and did things a normal person did he went to church and took care of his kids just on that day he made a bad choice and it took him away from us all i have to say is I love u Robert and now ur in a better place gone but never forgotten

So, then Raykenya, do you think other than that day he made any other bad choices like choosing to be a gang banger and running around with a loaded gun in his car. Did you love him enough to try and talk some sense into him about this kind of lifestyle? Or is it that you accept that lifestyle, where people kill each other for being in the wrong turf and its ok to shoot at each other from moving cars and maybe rob a 7-11 cause you're short of cash? I'm starting to think this whole problem is nothing but lousy culture and you as part of that culture are the one who has to break away from it. Do you hear what I'm saying?

Raykenya, normal people do not get into gunfights.

But then, as I say quite frequently, the abnormal has become the normal.

I think everone who has something to say negative thinks there perfect when they are not they just get off by making
other people fill down when they already do. stating that fact my couzin will always be remembered no matter what negative questions you ask so try to think about this situation if it were your brother or father or husband and if you still think the same way your not right by god. no need to respond you"ll just make yourself look pretty stupid.

Also don't make a negative comment if you are not perfect yourself which no one is because i don't see how that will make you feel better about yourself RIP Robert you will never be forgotten in mah heart cuzzo.

Ben, the intention here is not to make anyone 'fill' down but to point out that Robert was leading a terrible violence-prone gang member lifestyle and it seems like not one member of his extended family will condemn that kind of lifestyle. By your logic anything anybody does is just fine since no-one is perfect. For God's sake Ben can't you see accepting this kind of garbage behavior keeps it going? (and Robert's behavior was the very worst; just ask the family of Mr Mendoza the man Robert murdered that night). No politician can stop this; it has to be stopped from within the culture which means your culture Ben. Open your eyes and look at what's happening all around you.

No yo culture whatever you are don't comment no more because you still talkin negative about him and you can't determine anyway because you don"t know him and don't say you didn't have to because it's commen since to the people who did no him that he changed and I know my couzin he was not living a garbage life he had goals and he was smarter then most people just made a wrong choice which everyone does. So don't say your culture thats kinda a racist statement or atleast how I take it //////// John.

Sorry, Ben, but I'd say shooting someone while driving doesn't really demonstrate someone has changed, or am I missing something?

As far as the culture comment, go look at the homicide stats......a VERY large majority of LA homicides occur in minority communities. That's not racist, that's a fact. And that lifestyle has become part of the culture. That's the reality.

I miss you rob me and all your homeboys do to ! To his mom and dad and kids and sisters and brother and girlfriend, aunts and uncles and cousins we're sorry for you're loss !! If u didn't know robert keep your stupid comments to you're self!!! He's always going to be a good person to me no matter what !!!!

Ben, most normal people would consider his stunt of getting into a running gun battle with another person as among the most stupid things anyone could do.

Dont come here sugarcoating your cousins charachter. It was terrible and he showed an incredible lapse in judgement in putting the public in extreme danger.

all i gotta say is dont nobody give a f**k about wat yall talkin about ma cuzzin was da best damn person n da world cant nobody change the way meeh n ma family feel bout him say wat yall want but we no wat kind of person robert was..i luv yu cuzzin may yu rest n peace n heaven

God bless the family of this young man. I hope you all stay strong. To whoever the idiots are posting this junk, you should be careful cause you're going to be judged with the same measure you judge others. For your information good people make bad decisions all the time and we all have to pay for them whether sooner or later, we'll pay. Lord please cure the aching heart of this family.

Deondray, good people do not join gangs and then go do gun battles from moving cars.

Care to debate that point?

And for the record, god will judge the deceased very harshly.

0MG..R0BERT..My LiL Br0THeR Iz N0T HeRe N0 M0RE..BeCaUSe 0F A Ch0iCE He MaDe..He AnSwEr'D 2 HIz FaTHeR AlReaDy...S0 WhAT U TaLk'N AB0uT D0nT MaTTeR 2 Me HIM R N0b0dy In My FAMILy..wE CaN CaRE LeSS aB0UT WHaT U THiNK R H0w U FeeL...& WHaT Ab0UT "MR. MEND0zA"hE KiLL'D My Br0ThER 2...B0tH 0F THeM HaD 2 aNSwER 2 WHaT DEy D0Ne...U D0nT KN0 HiM R N0ThING Ab0UT HIm..All U Kn0W Iz WHaT U REaD & HaLF 0F tHA *HiT U ReaD Iz A DaM LIe..S0 SCrEW U & WHaT U THiNK & aNyB0dy ElSE Wh0 HavE S0mEThING F0uL 2 sAy AB0uT My BR0THER..I StilL L0VE hIM REgARDlESS HIS FAmILy STiLL L0VE HIm ReGaRdLeSS S0 ThATz ALL THaT MATTER...R0BERT U r MiSS'D & I L0VE U N0 MAttER wHAt..U STIll G0T HaTeRz Th0 & DEy sTILl W0rrING Ab0uT U..iTz LiKE DEy D0nT HAvE N0tHiNG ElsE 2 D0 BuT TALk aB0Ut U & WhaT TyPE 0F PErS0n U WaS..WHeN DEy ReaLLy D0NT Kn0W A dAM THINg Ab0UT U..BuT y0Ur fAM g0T U HeRe WIT Uz REgArDLEsS ThATz S0METHING dEy CaN't ChAnGE N0 MaTtER wHAT Dey SAy r ThINK...L0vE U LiL Br0 U aLwAyz IN My HEART..

Neka, I would like to read what you posted, but its hard on the eyes to decipher the words.

Youre talking to a global audience here.

Make your point using proper capitalization.

syscom3 I would love to debate anytime anywhere however, this is not the place or space. I want to apologize to this family for ruining the mourning process by getting back at this dude. first of all I can only debate from the Bible because that's what I believe, so if you don't there's no point wasting our time. I have plenty of scriptures for you. first of all you must remember that your judgement will be measured by how you judge others. according to yours that will be very strict so I hope your dang near perfect by now.

— Deondray .... I know one thing. As part of my judgment; the Lord will smile and say "no criminal activity - good for you, that's magnitudes better than some of the clowns who come in here with extensive violent conduct who expect me to let them get away with it"

@Deondray,

Would you mind telling us all where we can find in the bible, getting into a shoot out and MURDERING someone in the process get's you into heaven?
Let me help you, you cant.

And there is a big difference between "judging" someone and stating the facts.
Also because you opened your big mouth and said you "can only debate from the bible" you of all people should know how god feels about MURDERERS.
If your brain is a little slow let me help you, 1Corithians6:10.

"who expects me to let them get away with it" wow thats deep judge syscom,passing judgement on what you have read is what you guys are doing.I'm pretty sure none of you are of without sin in your life."let ye of no sin cast the first stone" before you countinue with the negetive post just think to yourself,how do these events affect you,and do you really care? or is this some form of entertainment for you?or is this only type of social life you have?

— everyday reader, for the vast majority of people, their "sins" do not rise to the level of criminal conduct.

You on the other hand, think that minor transgressions in a person lifetime is as sinfull if not worse than, violent criminal conduct. Thats the big lie people like you pass on to the criminals. Do anything you want because God will ultimatly say "no problem, come on in".

As for why I do these posts? As I have said many times; the taxpayer foots the bill for these sociopaths. indirectly or indirectly. When peacefull law abiding people are held hostage by these gangs, then society suffers and the rot that incurrs spreads everywhere.

And I do enjoy passing on my comments for all to enjoy or dislike. This is the modern equivelant of the "letters to the editor" page, and I take advantage of it.

— Deondray .... this is the proper forum to debate about homicides.

1) Do you agree or not agree with the fact that good people do not join gangs.

2) Do you agree or not agree with the fact that shooting guns from moving cars at other people is exceptionally violent conduct that puts society at extreme risk?

3) Do you agree or not agree with the fact that god does not like criminals who are so criminally negligent in their violent activities, that only the devil himself should deal with them?

Wow is all i can say. I am absolutely shocked at some of the comments on here and the disrespect shown to the victim and his family. Every day reader those were the same 2 Bible Vers. i was going to use. Both of these men made terrible choices, no one is denying that and they ultimately paid the highest price, their life. So who are you to criticize either man and especially their families. Roberts family knows him better than any of you "perfect" people on here. You can keep asking what if? But the point is he's deceased and thank God nobody else was harmed. What are you people really getting out of posting negative and ABSOLUTELY disrespectful comments on these blogs. Somebody please answer that

First off, what I don't understand is how do the people other than the family members have time to sit around and always comment on negativity in blogs about murdered victims. You talk about it's in our culture, but white people are killing and robbing as well as every other race.The whole part of the la times is just to inform us of what's going on around the world, not for people to get on here and bash others or use racist remarks against people.Please try to keep the peace and not cause drama with family members thats already in pain from mourning the lost of their loved one. This is sad, no race is better than the next and this is coming from a black,young female who grew up in the same area these men died in. I'm in college and will continue on to law school this coming year at Yale.

College student: killing and robbing is despicable behavior as is belonging to a criminal gang--no matter what culture you come from. However, it is also true that this culture we're talking about here has a disproportionately high incidence of this sociopathic violence. The statistics clearly bear that out; it can be seen all over this blog. And it's never going to change until the good people inside that culture begin to recognize it for what it is and strongly condemn it. If you look at the comments of Ben and Diamond, you can see that they not only aren't condemning this criminal gang shoot em up lifestyle which is what killed these two men, they are in complete denial on the whole issue. From their perspective, "ma cuzzin was da best damn person n da world". Well, if you consider gang banging car shooting murders to be "da best damn person n da world", just what do you consider to be a bad person? This garbage has to be labeled for what it is and if your culture has so much of it, why don't join the rest of the good people and speak out against it?

— college student ....... "but white people are killing and robbing as well as every other race."

Thats true on its face value. But what is a fact is the Black and Latino communities seem to have far more of it than white or asian communities.

This is so apparent in this blog it is not debatable. It is factual.

Have you ever gone past just reading the comments and actually looked at the statistics that are also provided?

And as always; please quote the racist comments.

Hopefully, you will take some classes in statistics and criminal justice before you start your ivy league education. Good luck!

hey syscom3
Im really tired of your negativity, i see that this is not the only person you go on and give a negative comment on how their "gansters" and such. You dont even know the person so stop judging them. and for your information im am also a college student and i am majoring in criminal justice. maybe u should take some victim advocate classes or something to have a better understanding on life.

It is truly amazing how people defend these gangsters. It is a culture, a sad one. For some people this is all they know, so they accept and defend it. It is a garbage ghetto lifestyle, its not Black, it has no soul, its lousy. ALL these family members defending this guy should have been putting forth this effort everyday trying to get him straight, but you accept this bizarre lifestyle as normal. All those relatives claiming they are in school and not ghetto...yeah sure, only certain types of people believe in the ghetto lifestyle and think its normal or ok., schoolkids know better. Gangbangers with kids, how selfish, you wont even be around, who are these women having kids with temporary dads, soon to expire...you are tripping too, getting with a guy based on his swagger, I AM SICK OF THE GHETTO DEFENDERS, YOU SHOULD BE MAD AND SUPPORTING THE POLICE, RECOGNIZE THE LIFESTYLE PROBLEMS, ITS NOT NORMAL.

Dang syscom3, you are on some roll of putting down everyone that comments for this guy! But i do agree with some of your comments. I don't know him, but im sure this is a perfect example of a culture that was mainstream to him, a lifestyle that is absolutely terrible and wrong. Nevertheless, he had people who loved him, and who he loved dearly- enough to continue this lifestyle to support them. And therefore may he Rest In Peace. I pray your children have a great future away from that culture

I've been wanting to comment on here for months now, but I have so much pain in my heart. I was Roberts Girlfriend of three years. We have a Daughter together, so I can truly say I kno him. Robert was a Great person besides the Gangbanging, he was a Highly Respected person & a great person. He Loved to Joke around & Laugh. He Loved Me ,his Four kids,his Family & Friends. & everyone that knew him Loved being around him. I am a young single Mother of 2 kids , I got my own apartment & im in school, & for you all to think black ppl just sit around killing other ppl is just wrong! & for ppl to just to talk so negative about him & his Family is just not Right. why dont you all just mind your own business. Robert spent most of his Time with me , his kids & his Family. So dont think he just sat around all day thinking about kiling ppl. that wasnt the type of person he was!. im not on here to change anyones opinion on Robert im just stating the Fact. Noone knows what really happened. & no Robert didnt own a Gun. So believe what you want! He really was a good person & the kind of person that had your back, if he loved or cared about you. Early that day was the last time I seen my Love , I would of never thought in a million years he would of had to leave so soon. or I would of never thought I would be wasting my time talking to ppl that never knew Him & will never have the pleasure in knowing him. Noone is perfect & noone would understand anyone elses actions but them. Noone knows why ppl join gangs, it could be to rep your city or to protect thier selves. But I know Robert didnt Join a Gang for the thrill of killing ppl. He Loved his life to much for that. why cant you all just let us mourn in peace. just by you all going back and forth with his family just shows you have a lot of time on your hands that can be put to good use. instead of trying to play God. Im just Glad so many ppl took the time out of thier day to show Respects to My Man. He was my Lover , My Babies Father & My Friend.
I love you Babe & I always will. you are forever in our hearts.Your kids, your Family & Friends know the Real you & thats all that matters. You will forever be missed, we will meet again.

P.S. im not sending this message for anyone to respond, im just stating the Facts & showing my Love!

This is what happens when gangbangers have guns.

This is a sad example of what has happened to the Black family and community. Robert was NOT a victim, even his own family admitted he was a gangster, and he died as such. For goodness sakes he was shooting at someone with a gun and, like some 30’s gangster flick, they took each other out. Some claim he had 3 children, others say 4, and it’s obvious they had various mothers. He was only 23 and should have been working, in the military or going to school not out shooting at someone he probably didn't even know. Don't you realize what a terrible waste of life you are committing by indulging in such a destructive and unproductive way of life? What do you gain by belonging to one gang or another? You needlessly destroy families, maybe your own, for NOTHING. It is so sad to see what is happening to so many youngsters from a proud and strong race of people. This is not a cultural issue, this is a stupidity issue. Most of you who claim you are educated and go to school have atrocious grammar and can't spell. Stop just "going to school" and actually read the books and do the work. Make yourself proud and your family too, your respect and rewards will come. Stop making morticians, florists, balloon shops and dove handlers rich. Love one another, and oh yeah, pull up your damn pants. Your a** and underwear is not sexy.

At least no innocent bystanders or children were injured or killed while these two knuckleheads played "shoot-em-up-cowboy-yippee-kai-yay".

" .... Robert was a Great person besides the Gangbanging, he was a Highly Respected person & a great person. "

In what type of culture? In the normal world where people don't commit violent crimes, his behavior is seen as being sociopathic. A respectable person who has a family stays away from this lifestyle so as to provide for them.

" .... & for ppl to just to talk so negative about him & his Family is just not Right. "
So what are we supposed to say about an individual who goes on a shootout in a car in a residential neighborhood?

" .... & no Robert didnt own a Gun."

And how do you explain he had a weapon on him and it was loaded?

" .... Noone is perfect ... "

And only a few people adopt a violent lifestyle and act like its normal. That statement alone is a common phrase used by gang enablers to justify the indefensible.

" .... instead of trying to play God."

It wasnt any of us who decided to shoot at another person AND PLAY GOD!!!!!

people sure like to justify their familys murderous actions. that is the most pathetic response. and who calls an adult booboo anyway.. oh i know. hoodsluts. thats who. glad the gangmember is done. and another one bites the dump...

i responded because i am the mother of one child. that would be my husband and my only child. since my son has been in school he has always had problems with the gang members. stealing his jackets, backpack, cell phones. whatever he would sit down the gangmember would steal. couldnt play a simple game of basketball because the gangmember would show up there and steal there too. so all this poor dead gangmember is bull*hit. i dont feel sorry for these gangmember predators or their family, baby mama, or their kids. they did'nt show any sympathy for the people they terrorize. so you family members can go boohoo yourself to hell with the thug you call a good person. a bunch of pathetic, welfare recipients. apparently the responses have struck a nerve because you all claim to have jobs or going to school. yeah right, welfare to work is what it's called. stop breeding with gangmembers and get your tubes tied. we are tired of taking care of you tramp ass hoodsluts. NO MORE SECTION8 WHILE I'M AT IT.....

Syscom3, I have a question for you. You have argued with this family since March, it has been about 8 months now, do you think God is pleased? Let is go. Romans 14 verse 11-13. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then everyone of us shall give account of himself to God. Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brothers's way.

@syscom3__--__ Its official you are not an American

"It wasnt any of us who decided to shoot at another person AND PLAY GOD!!!!!"

It is you who JUDGES ON THE BLOG LIKE YOUR GOD and know all; and you don't have a clue. you know nothing except hate. At least these gang members have people who cared and loved for them not matter what, You can't say the same.

What a lonely uninformed pathetic partial soul>>

"...besides the gangbanging" pretty much says it all.

This has got to be one of the saddest blogs I've ever read on here. This young man died in March, over 7 months ago and you guys are still throwing stones at the family, for what? The man is gone... He's resting, nothing that is said on here will he heard by him. So I would have to assume that all the negative comments are to further the hurt of the family. His woman gets on here and expresses her continuous hurt over her lost and these silly comments, and you guys keep it up. Wow!!! We all know that ganbanging is wrong and that this man made a sad mistake in his decision making that night. We got that!!! Now what? Why is the debate continuing? I just don't get it!!!!

— Trina, the debate goes on because of the lifestyle the deceased chose to live, and the conduct of his family in trying to make him to be a sweet misguided soul "who usually wouldn't hurt anyone".

The whole thread epitomizes on what's wrong with these killing field neighborhoods and the gang enablers who let the carnage continue.

The deceased was not a nice person. He had a whole life that involved inflicting terror and violence upon others. And he did it with complete disregard to the safety of others.

I do not want his family to trick people into thinking he was one type of person when in fact, he wasn't.

It is time for them to apologize to the public for the tax money that was wasted on him, and the harm he inflicted upon others. Until they grasp the truth about it and acknowledge the evil he was a part of, then people like me will remind them of it.

And if they're looking for sympathy, they should go to the obituaries and not here.

Sheba; ever hear of the concept that all it takes for evil to flourish, is for good people to do nothing?

I am so sorry for this young black man and latino guy that lost their lives. I wish they had both think twice before taken this path. There is definitely a problem in these communtities, and black families have to try harder. Dont live in shelters and expose your kids to a lot of negativities. Encourage your children to stay in school. Set good examples for your children. Let them understand that working for money is the best and show them how to keep a job by having good work habit. Tell them only the best is good enough. The reason why most black men come out to be no good is because good examples were never set by their parent. Too many of us blacks have been killed by the guns. WE HAVE TOO TAKE CHARGE AND BE RESPONSIBLE AND DON'T BLAME ANYONE.

Syscom3, I can't argue with what the word of God says, because his word is truth and not a concept. We cannot fight evil in the flesh, which is what you are doing, when you taunt the deceased families with your words of judgement. Ephesians 6 verse 12 says "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places".I dont know if you know but this is a spiritual war, The biggest part of the battle is fought on our knees in prayer, not on the homicide report compounding pain to those already experiencing it. To answer your question, is trashing the families of the deceased doing something good? I mean is this really helping the situation. Is this going to bring back any of the deceased? Is it going to comfort the loved ones on either side? What I am asking you is any good going to come out of the words that you have posted for 8 months and counting?

what gangs are in this area?

Circumstances are the Rulers of the weak.

Sheba, I think there is something important happening in this blog. While it gets a little heated sometimes, sometimes a little nasty, we are nevertheless communicating important things here. People living in this dreadful violent culture who excuse or enable this kind of lifestyle get to hear, perhaps for the very first time, from those of us who are fed up with their nonsense. People such as Syscom3, been there, tired of it, and myself have few other venues to try to reach these folks. Political correctness is a poison that has far too long prevented things being said that sorely need to be said. These people may be taken aback by hearing this harsh condemnation of their culture/lifestyle but it is high time they heard it, one way or another.

Okay, so was this ECC vs F13?

This is a HOT MESS !!! You people should be ashamed of yourself!!! Let the family grieve in peace. You don't have to put fuel to the fire. Robert is dead and gone nothing is going to bring him back, so all of your negative comments are not needed. GET A LIFE PEOPLE ugh....

I don’t think comments are directed at family per se, but at other readers. Readers who may be in a gang or associate with gang members and hopefully may be inspired to leave said gang and/or end a relationship with a gangster or just stop trying to be such a harda** themselves. Obviously the comments aren’t directed at the deceased and I don’t believe most people are trying to hurt the feelings of the family members. We are just tired of the violence and the killing of innocent people. I’m sure Mr. Gibson was loved but that does not excuse bad behavior or poor choices. I hope his children will learn the good things about their father but that their mothers will also keep them out of gangs so history does not repeat itself.

You family members HAVE to make it important to keep your people away from gangs, its a matter of life of death. Quit spouting biblical quotes, its water under the bridge

Wow I am from New Zealand - we have a gang problem too but reading about what happens in LA is mad. The amount of crime in this city is shocking - crazy. The respecvt shown on this sight to gangsters is crazy - some people obviously have been raised to have little respect for others or themselves. I HATE GANGS AND GANG BANGERS - the influence you have on younger ones is shocking; my blood boils seeing this gangster crap on NZ tv and radios thanks a lot your dirty ways have spread down here. Wish you would all shoot each other up and be done with it!!

@SYSCOM3 Keep speaking the truth,love your post

This blog is sad. A bad choice is ordering the chicken instead of the fish. Getting in a rolling gunfight is a bad lifestyle, not a bad choice.

Funny how nobody comes on here and says what a great guy Ricardo Mendoza was and how only God can judge him.

Ricardo was the guy that killed Robert you know!

Robert and Ricardo were just a couple of great guys, if you look past the fact that both of them were a couple of murderers!

Robert ("Lil Joker") was from Eastside 92 Bishop Bloods so Ricardo Mendoza was either from Florencia 13, Ivy St 13 or some other mexican gang in the area. This happened right in 92 Bishop Blood's stronghold 92nd st. Since that was 92 Bishop's hood, maybe that's what started the shooting. It seems like the ES 92 Bishop Bloods have lost a few homies in this area. Back in 08 "Lil Pint" (Travelle Hamblett) & "Monk" (Markeith Wilson) were gunned down in close vicinity. RIP to both individuals involved. Always a sad situation when young men die like this.

@ Patriot Fan - EXACTLY.

These two guys were nothing more than common criminal THUGS. Karma aint it a B!@#$

tha young vett coast killin

give me a break
You and your copycat postings.

@tired of it...

AMEN...and I'm not even religious...

So let me get this straight...If you kill then you go to hell right...THats what most of you are getting at...however how do you explain that to soldiers that die for their country but kill prior to that?...do they go to hell as well...This country has a double standard for who goes to hell and who doesn't...none of us know who is going and who isn't...you can't say hey he's going because he was a gangster but the soldier goes to heaven...it doesn't work that way...murder is murder and hell is reall my friend...I do not condone what these two people were doing but when we talk about inner city and their culture we know that it is gang infested and filled with crime...I am a product of the inner city but I was also able to get out of the city and I am now a LMFT...BTW I am also a black male and ex-gang member...Syscom you seem to know one word(SOCIOPATH)...well if you study the word you would understand that sociopaths take no risk....they think things through and then act....If there is a chance that they could be killed or caught then they wont take the risk...YOu seem to be a person that has a lot of time to read through every HR and comment on them...However on the Brain Ehcols murder you did not have one comment to make...Could that be because he was white and a drug dealer?...maybe or maybe not....this os what I do know for sure...I have clients that are of all colors and based on their income a lot of the crimes that they commit are prosecuted based on just that...COLOR....before you go judging people you should live a day in their life and their shoes....some dont ever get to experience a pleasant day let alone a life and then when you are of color and you have no education it makes it even harder...Not all gangsters are cold hearted or sociopaths some are just misguided...once again these two were wrong in their actions and they will pay some type of price other than death. However let GOD be the final decision maker and let's respect this family as they go through this difficult moment...RIP to both young men and may God have mercy on you....

@Tired of it all
Two thumbs up !!! I agree with everything u said.. the baby momma has 2 kids and going to school and he was only the father of one im sure... pathetic... make me happy go to school and get a job!!! Welfare section 8 finacial aid and food stamps i'm sure.... I'm tired of supporting these jerks

Since we are given a map of the areas in which this voilence occured, Syscom you shoud really make a trip and discuss your thoughts about the gangbangers that are still living and maybe you can reach someone. Stop talking about it and be about it.

Check the map out.

“ …..If you kill then you go to hell right...THats what most of you are getting at...however how do you explain that to soldiers that die for their country but kill prior to that …. ?

Members of the armed forces have the lawful sanction of an elected govt to kill within the boundries of the laws of war. Gangsters have no authorization from society to commit crimes. A fundemental difference.

Sociopaths are just that. Dedicated to a life of violent crime without regard for property or human life. That describes a gangster as well as any I’ve read. Or perhaps we should call them “psychopaths” because they think they are doing good and are glamourous in terrorizing other people.

There is no “Brian Ehcols” listed in this blog. Nor did his name show up using various ways of spelling his last name.

“ …. Not all gangsters are cold hearted or sociopaths some are just misguided …”

Do you really believe that? If it werent for the gangsters, then we wouldn’t have an HR report, would we? And just what is society supposed to think of these fine outstanding humanitarians that murder people for no reason? Should we throw a parade for them to celebrate their chosen occupations of selling drugs? And because some of them are cold and calculating, that makes them any less evil?

Contemplate this famous quote …. “all it takes for evil to flourish is for good men to do nothing”.

And by god, I will judge any criminal harshly regardless of race, creed, ethnicity or station in life! That is my chosen way of dealing with this scrouge!

Dear Do something about it,
You know as well as I do that one cannot reach a gangbanger who is right in the middle of his association with said gang. I have been in the middle of two in lock up and in mediation and when feeling are running as deep as they do neither one is ready, willing or able to find the spot in them that holds compasion, empathy or any other sign of humanness (sp). I know there are those that would love more money and time dropped into these areas but I came to the realization along time ago that when that one person wants out or help he will know exactly where to go to get it. I do not need to keep going into his area to show him away out. So I will work from my place on this earth and he can live in his place on earth.

Dear FOols,
First of all this country does not allow us to think any one way..."this country has a double standard" your quote not mine. Second, where did you get your info that sociopath does not take any risks? What book or report or study did that come from because, Bundy was caught, Ramires was caught, Acala was caught and the list goes on and on. One should really quote the report in their post where the information was read so that we all could go back and read that same report. Shame on you that sociopaths don't take risks because history is full of those that took one too many risks and eventually got caught.

@ Do something about it...Syscom will not respond to your comment because he will never get off his behind and work in the inner cities...He is a do nothing but say everything type of person....All talk no actions....sit back and criticize others but wont show guidance...maybe because he has none himself....I love when those that have not walked in others shoes have so much to say about them...I grew up in Compton...went to college and earned my Masters with honors....however I still take time to go back and give to the community...free tutoring, basketball camps, and for grieving families I offer grief counseling for free...I do all of this out of my own pocket...no grants from the government...let's see if Syscom can match that or even respond to this....

@FOol - good for you and your accomplishments WAY TO GO. However Syscom3 IS NOT required to do any of those things and he IS entitled to his opinion. Just as you are entitled to disagree.

@ give me a break....You sound like a bitter person...If you follow Syscom on this HR you would see that he always has something to say about blacks voting and writing congress, giving back to their communities and so on...So when you preach but do not practice what you preach you are a hypocrite...Opinions are okay...thats not a problem at all but when you come on the HR and put down those that are of minority background I would expect to see you doing something to help out...SO with that being said your words fly by with no significance...GIVE ME A BREAK AND do something worthy before your demise....

@FOols,

I respect and agree with you you on your statements and commend your accomplishments coming from the inner community. You know first hand "a day in the life" of the pressures that take place in communitys such as these.

Like you, in previous HR posts I have attempted to educate people like Syscom and even went as far as to challenge him/her to take action. We all know that ACTION speaks LOUDER then words. Not only does it speak louder but it has a much better chance of producing results. Unfortunately Syscom specifically nor any of his/her supporters seem to be willing to heed that suggestion. So the anger from all sides gets fueled in the HR Blog. At the end of th day it ends up being a bunch of rhetoric.

While I will never personally condone the actions of any behavior or action unjustifiable, I have enough experience, education and common sense to know a behavior and lifestyle stems from something. To everything there is a root. How do we break a cycle? By understanding the root.. empathizing with that root and using whatever resource accessible to us to restore that root!

Do we care that much? To come from behoind our computer screens? Are you really THAT ANGRY? THAT Concerned? That frustrated?

My heart goes out to not just the family of victims but the family of offenders.. And I am very critical of the "Suburban Critics" who use MERE WORDS and words alone.. simply OBSERVE and condemn.. "Observe" being the KEY word...

Its so sad that one can be so "ignorant". But being ignorant means you just DONT KNOW. And the bottomline is Syscom nor her advocates really do. And the obvious is unless your rolling up your sleeve in the "trenches" with people in these types of communitys or grew up in one you won't really know. The blame game is only the easy part.

When you get deep in dialogue like this you more then likely will not get a response from Syscom. I never did. And hey, thats ok. The best rebuttle from what I've seen was "voting for better politicians".. but even that is only a fragment of the problem.. and doesn't even hit at the surface.

Thank you for what you do. I send my prayers to the family on both sides.

FOol
'give me a break' is bitter. She also comes here to pop her nose in nunya. Extremely annoying are her posts.

CJ ....... many of my responses to you and others are not posted for one reason or another by the editors of this blog. Not my fault. Maybe you should e-mail the editors and demand "let syscom speak"!

""Suburban Critics" who use MERE WORDS and words alone.. simply OBSERVE and condemn.".

That's right. I live in a city that's functional and sane where the leading cause of death is old age. And I am happy to compare the observations I make on my city and the killing field neighborhoods where dysfunction and urban pathologies is the norm.

And please tell all of us readers of this newspaper, just why we should not condemn the violent psychopathic behavior of these urban street gangs and their enablers who make this blog possible?

And my gender is male, not female.

CJ,
What or how do you get a mother to get off her bottom and attend a school meeting? Unless I offer her food there's no way I am getting 50% of the parents of the kids I am around to come out to anything!! Everytime I needed to talk to a parent all I needed to do was make sure I said I would be at the location with food or some other sort of free stuff and there they were! If the parents don't care what do we do to motivate them? More hand outs? More and more and more. SO when does it stop? When do we say enough? At what point do we make them responsible? Because I was the last step before jail and I still couldn't get them to come in and see me about Jr. unless I offered them something in return. Simply saving thier childs life wasn't enough, it wasn't enough becuase the easy money was better! So I guess that puts my 10 years of trying in the same boat as syscom3, in your words not mine...useless. Well I'll take your title of me as useless and walk away with my head hung low. I tried and failed but I was an outsider...the mothers and fathers failed too and that's worst then my failure. Why you ask...because I waited like a fool time after time after time waiting for them to show up to meet me half the way. My shame...your right.

@ Syscom you are quick to put down the inner cities but never respond to the death that happens in surburban communities...I reside in Belmont Shore where there is crime (MURDERS) that are not reported in the HR...DOes that make my community is less safer?..NO...DOes it make it better than any other city?...NO...we just have more resources and a smaller community...However I will not condemn others for where they are able to live and survive without doing something about it...Your views are irrational and without merit...Gangs exist through out this world and this country was created on war and murders....You would argue that it was done for a purpose but murder is murder...there is a war going on within our country and all you have the time to do is sit back and crititcize young minorities for their wrong doings....What about all the corruption that goes in politics why aren't you ever on the front page of L.A TImes commenting?...Is it because most corruption in politics has to do with WHITES?...you have a serious obsession with minority groups and you ahould seek help...When most of you day is focused on what's going on in the inner cities then I would consider that INSANE....you have probably never been to cities such as Compton, Watts, Gardena, yet you look on the HR to see what's going on and then you form a idiotic opinion...visit these places and then maybe SYSCOM3 could write a book or magazine on how it felt being in the trenches of what you call THE PLACE WHERE THEY DIE YOUNG....

^^^ "Like"

@Syscom, with respect to your comments I will say this.. from a sociological aspect I would say perhaps it is healthy maybe even vital to be able to make observations about a certain problem, or behavior, culture, demographic etc... compare what may or may not influence certain things to take place. Im sure on both sides we can take some notes & in the end you will conclude with a vasque array of differences. In your fortunate instance the leading cause of death you state is "old age". What a wonderful observation to conclude with for your community.

I referenced in my original comment that like yourself one thing we can agree on is that I do not CONDONE by any means any unjustifiable actions nor do I not sympathize with the rage in behind condemning certain actions especially one ending with murder.

Heres the problem,, there is a major imbalance with the way you choose to condemn verses providing ideas to incorporate or motivate a change in the community you find so much interest in. Your condemnation has no type of edification behind it. From what I've witnessed since coming accross the majority of your comments is that you fuel more derogatory responses then inspired, motivated responses. So in the end what does it benefit? How does what you say help the family change? The other readers change? How does it help the community affected by so much grief & oppression as it is? These communitys are oppressed not just by the killings but economically, socially.. there is WAY MORE going on then what you see on HR. But sadly, you dont know that.

As I forementioned and as you have confirmed in your comment... you REALLY DONT KNOW. You read, observe, type what you think to be true and condemn based on your own prejudgements. You point fingers not based on experience, not based on knowing first hand.. but based on assumption. You and people like yourself have created your own boxed way of thinking. And unfortunately a boxed way of thinking cant contribute to a broader situation. Theres only a remnant of you and majority of the time that remnant does not live in the communitys they so vehemently condemn. And even moreso unwilling to come from behind their computer screens to even attempt to put some action behind their words.

@Julie, I believe I spoke to someone on HR with the same comments your expressing. Almost seems identical but with a different name.. Perhaps you are the same person?

There are more ways then one to contribute to a community. And in contributing it does not always have to be an incentive involved persay. Alot of people lack jobs, skills, clothing to obtain jobs, computers.. There are countless things our communitys need. What is the specific need you observe for your particular school? Do the majority of the parents lack jobs? lack skills? The biggest motivation is to sift out the core issue and start from there. If you notice that people are more prone to come out when you offer food,, perhaps they lack money and thats the core issue. So brainstorm a major job fair.. if they lack skills perhaps we need to get together people willing to help inhance their skills.. There are so many ideas and things we can do but we have to be WILLING to do it. And I know you may not reach everybody but im confident you will reach somebody. Not every parent turns their heads when it comes to his/her childs education. Has it ever occurred to you that some may be from a single parent home where that one parent is holding one or more jobs just to take care of them? THere are countless things to do to encourage & motivate.. the bottomline is you have to have a heart to want to do them.

Hopefully the editors of this blog will let me reply.

“@ Syscom you are quick to put down the inner cities but never respond to the death that happens in surburban communities...”

Do you ever look at the interactive map provided in this blog? Really. Look at it. Try to notice the lack of “dots” in certain cities and communities. It’s plainly obvious that there is a lack of opportunities for me to respond to those homicides simply because they don’t happen frequently.

As for Belmont Shores, the interactive map shows that there were only two homicides recorded in the past 5 years. Congratulations for living in a safe city/neighborhood. Now compare that to Watts and Westmont where there are that many homicides in a month. As for unrecorded homicides in your community; I suggest you bring this to the attention to the Coroner and the HR Report as they would like to know who they missed and why.

“Your views are irrational and without merit...Gangs exist through out this world and this country was created on war and murders....”

Huh? Because there have always been criminal gangs, I am supposed to rejoice in it?

“….. and all you have the time to do is sit back and crititcize young minorities for their wrong doings....”

And what are we supposed to do? Congratulate them for the lifestyle they have chosen? Are you implying that the violence, terror and mayhem they are inflicting upon society is not to be condemned because they are minorities? Just what are you trying to say? Are you so politically correct, this type of evil cannot be discussed by anyone?

“What about all the corruption that goes in politics why aren't you ever on the front page of L.A TImes commenting?...Is it because most corruption in politics has to do with WHITES?...”

The LA Times doesn’t think I am newsworthy, nor deserving to be a guest op-ed writter. Take it up with them, not me.

“you have a serious obsession with minority groups and you ahould seek help...”

That is true. As people have been reading this blog since its inception can tell you, I want those groups to have good schools, safe neighborhoods and good economic prospects.

CJ,
Sorry I gave up about three years ago. When the parents stopped caring about the life of thier child and I could not motivate them, I figured I was done and called it a day. The motivation should have been the life of their child but it wasn't...I cannot think of a more bigger motivation than that and it didn't work. The saddest part...while I worked there I ended up going to five funerals...the last three by then I was burned out. And don't get me wrong...I went to homes waited and waited and waited and NOT one person ever showed up and this after making an appointment. So for me there are no more excuses...I can't even think what could possibly motivate me to reach out. Now I just add my $2.00 to the collection plate that's passed around and call it a day. Hey if mom doesn't care their isn't room for me to care. I only see Jr. for a few hours a day, she has way more influence on him. I say my prayers in the morning at my desk that a stray bullet doesn't come in through the window and hope that the next person down isn't someone that I know. It is not the same person...maybe just the same job? I don't know just came on here to read about one more of the guys who didn't make it out. Good luck to those still standing and my God have mercy on his soul.

— CJ ..... after reading your response to Julie; I am astounded by the excuses you are making for the parents.

BEING POOR IS NEVER A REASON TO NOT GET INVOLVED WITH YOUR CHILD'S EDUCATION!!!!

And if you cant raise and support one child, then please don't require the taxpayers to pay for others!!!!!

You want to know the real reason there are so many urban pathologies in play in these killing field neighborhoods? It's because the people who live there, reelect the same do nothing officials decade after decade. All these officials have are excuses and complaints. Never a solution.

The world has changed considerably the past 35 years and you have people like Maxine Waters thinking it's still 1964!

There is absolutely no excuse for Mr. Gibson to have put society at extreme risk by getting in a rolling gun battle. He should be rightfully condemned for his actions and fingers pointed at his family ... the enablers of this horrible lifestyle!

What a crazy way of living life.

I'm just so glad to be thousands and thousands of miles away from an insane and horrible life you guys live in.

Can't believe all the killings I'm reading. I live in a country where even the Police don't wear guns.

So glad to be on the other side of the world....

Syscom3, "That is true. As people have been reading this blog since its inception can tell you, I want those groups to have good schools, safe neighborhoods and good economic prospects" If you truly mean this, my hats off to you!!

Well good for you, KiwiBoy. We're also glad that fruity pebbles such as yourself are thousands of miles away too.

@ Syscom3...you have a one track mind...if a person calls another person a soldier you automatically ASSUME that they are gang members...I am a soldier for GOD so does that make me a gang member?...you have to open your mind up and try to get a better understanding of LINGO...not just street LINGO...if you want better schools in these communities what are you doing to help the cause?...NOTHING but being critical of the happenings on HR daily...you are more concerned about whether someone was a gang member than you are that another person has been gunned down...Looking down your nose does not help solve the problems of the world it only adds to the ignorance that continues to grow....I would never suggest that you glorify gang violence however I do not condemn those without trying to understand them...and even after I willnot condemn them because that is not my job...My job is to make that I am a productive citizen of the world living by the code of the bible, teach my children how to become more productive, and reach out to those in need...based on the many post that you have put on HR I know that you are not doing anything that would be of any benefit to others....You are out for your own benefit...YOu are judgmental, insensitive, and you get a rise out of making comments that get others upset...YOu are a real CLOWN BLOGGER...while some get out and pound the concrete for results you sit behind a computer looking for the next MINORITY gang member to condemn on the HR....GET A LIFE AND OR GET ON THE PAVEMENT AND HELP MAKE A CHANGE...Since you say that you want THESE communities to have better opportunities I have a challenge for you...SInce we know that a large number of people in THESE communities can not read I challenge you to go down to the juvenile halls and help tutor...if you need infomation I will be glad to give it to you and I also am close to the person that choses the volunteers...YOU LET ME KNOW!!!!

23 with 3 kids and he's out gang-banging...wow...sounds like a real upstanding young man. Instead of running the streets with a bunch of deginerates, he should have been taking care of his kids. At least he's no longer a danger to his children and the community.

I do not know Robert, I am just a browser. But you people who come on this site to disrespect people who are grieving, have serious head issues. Who cares about your opinion on gang members, I'm sure there are things in your life that can be looked down upon. Who are you to judge anyone? Have some respect and keep your ignorant opinions to yourself. How would you like to read comments like this about your loved ones? What is wrong with you? You need to log off asap and get HELP! Something is off in your head to think it is okay to share such a negative opinions. How about you get some balls and walk to his neighborhood pointed out on the map and tell his family members, to their faces, what you think about their loved one? Until you can do that please stfu, log off the computer, and go and get a f'n conscience.

May Robert RIP.

Wow, this post has made me understand just a little bit more why this problem is so prolific! Right is wrong and wrong is right! Now three children do not have a father . . . but . . . given the lifestyle . . . that may be a blessing since gang-bangers are good people! Really? No one is perfect, no not one, but anyone who is dumb enough to say that God is for gang-banging is very ignorant indeed. God loves everyone, gang-banger included, but He does not condone unnecessary violence. We all know these types of incidences usually end with innocent (children) being caught in the cross-fire! What next, pedophiles are ok cause after all, no one is perfect!!!! C'mon people, some of these posts were actually a plea for gang-bangers to OPEN THEIR EYES! Think outside the box. . . stop blaming others and take responsibility for your family, friends and neighbors! We Black people have to overcome prejudice every day. . .who is going to at least live above the stereotypes . . right now I will settle for someone "trying" to live above them!

Wow - this blog is FU'd. People attacking those who express disapproval of gangs and at the same time, defend the gang member murderer. Maybe there is no hope because of of all of the enablers.

And for those who tell Syncom to go out and help people in these neighborhoods. You know what would happen to a white person caught there after dark, and in many cases, even during the day. Work on making your neighborhoods safe and them maybe people will come to help.

— Onlooker ... you are wrong on so many levels. For anyone to remain silent when someone is committing despicable acts of violence is tacitly giving their approval for such acts.

Ever hear of the saying "For all it takes for evil to flourish is for good people to stay silent"?

This blog should allow everyone in the community to express themselves when the homicide is gang related or suspected to be.

Only by confronting these sociopaths and their enablers will society begin to fight back.

Its a shame that many of the "negative" words and condemnations should have been said earlier before anything tragic happened to them or the people of these communities.

Richie, I think people are just tired of syscom3 coming on the hr and trashing the deceased and their families. He truly believes that all blacks and Latinos are beneath him. He thinks he knows more about their communities then they do when he in fact has never visited the neighborhood. He sits and bashes the deceased in their family's. Everyone that is murdered on the homicide report is not a gang banger but syscom3 cant see that because of his stereotyping. I guess you cannot walk in that, that you don't see. Go thru all of his comments from now to years past and you will understand those responders frustration with him.

— syscom3
Very well said.

I am always sad when a person meets an untimely death. Even if they weren't the greatest citizen, once a person dies, there is no chance to change or correct their sins. But I am so tired of people saying, "Quit acting like you never made a mistake," and "Don't judge him, nobody is perfect". Well duh, no one is perfect and yes everyone makes mistakes.

The difference is that most of us have never made a mistake that was a FELONY! Ok? A mistake usually for the average person is not a G^* d^#*^$ FELONY!!!!! Got it? And a drive by shooting is not a mistake, its not an accident. This incident was a CHOICE by both parties involved. No matter what anyone says, riding in your car with a loaded gun is reckless and irresponsible. Are we supposed to believe this was the first time he had done this?

He should have been home taking care of his kids or working to provide for them. Now what? Those kids have to grow up without a father. That father is no victim, this was his choice. There is no way anyone is gonna convince me this guy was a good person. What good was he doing? Thank God no one else was killed.

@ Richie....white people are continuously in COmpton, Watts, Long BEach, ETC...working to make a living so why cant they stay a little longer to do community service...Your question baffles me though...DO YOU KNOW WHAT WOULD HAPPEN TO A WHITE PERSON IF THEY ARE CAUGHT THERE AFTER DARK?....do you honestly know how many white people are caught in these cities after dark?....no you dont because you're to afraid to help which means that you are part of the problem...but to answer your question nothing happens to the ones that I know and work closely with...the last time I checked the homocide or robbery reports I did not see any white people on there....I guess that would be like me asking do you know what would happen to a black man if he is caught in Beverly Hills after dark...stupidity keeps this country in shambles..

Some of ya'll are stupid... When you start Bangin... you know it only ends two ways... Jail or tha Grave... so ya'll tryin to diss ol' boy because he died fighting??? some of you will do all tha right things and still die like a coward... ya'll talk all that mess about fightin back.. and takin back our community... but if you see someone get killed right in front of you I doubt you would even tell... thats why gangs exsist... because you will write on a blog but you wont LIVE it... you will say "thats not right" but you wont do nothing about it... COWARDS... all ya'll that write on here but are too scared to see a 15 year old out here doing wrong and correct him.... You are a COWARD... If you ever knew someone that Murdered someone and never told... You are a COWARD and ya'll are as Much of tha problem as tha one who's pullin tha Trigger... COWARDS!!!

Dear Mr. FOol,

Maybe I'm just going by what it is near where I live. I live in the Boston area, grew up in the projects. One of the few (but there were more) who graduated college and moved out. There are places around here I wouldn't go at night. Some of them black, some hispanic and some filled with white trash. Is it because I'm afraid? No - I grew up fighting. Just don't feel like going there at night and getting robbed or worse. But even in these areas, it's no where near as bad as L. A. I'm betting you have more murders in L. A. county than you do in all of New England. Something's not right with that picture. I think you have "structual" problems in your neighborhoods. Random people going in and trying to "help" isn't going to do much good. It's deeper than that. Too many enablers. The whole social structure needs to change. People need to turn against the gang-bangers but too many come on this blog and defend them. I don't see politicians doing anything to help. New York City seems to have improved in the last 20 years. Maybe they need to take a look at what worked there.

@ Richie it's comments such as yours that continues to hurt society as a whole...if u teach a kid at an early age that they more than just a statistic than they will begin to believe this....but if we continue to say there is no hope then they will believe that as well...this is how the stupidity begins...in Iraq terrorist are created at birth as they are taught to hate America...as they grow so grows their hate...it is the same thing in America with gangs...yeah New England murder is much much lower than L.A county but the underground world also looms in New England...White collar crime and mafia extortions...what makes that so different?...nothing at all...if u give up on children eventually they will come after you in a deadly way...here's something for you to ponder...when the crips and blood gangs began they were predominantly in California...however they began to migrate to other states and now you have blue and red around America now...if it was that easy for a bunch of uneducated gang bangers to expand and profit like that what makes you think that they can't invade New England...

Mr. FOol,

It's not comments like mine that hurt society, but you are right, it's the parents in alot (but not all) of these situations. My mother raised 5 of us without any help and we all turned out OK. If we misbehaved, we got the strap or couldn't go out. We joked around (later in life) that nowadays, our mother would have been arrested for abuse (because of the strap). My mother passed away a couple of years ago, but all of us love her and miss her very much. She had a tough time raising us but it all ended well. I have a daughter myself now in college. Never had to hit her, just lecture and nag the sh*t out of her if she does something wrong. She probably is on good behaviour because she's afraid my lectures will bore her to death. :) But I don't accept bad behaviour from her and am always after her about doing good in school and work. So far, it looks like she will turn out good so I am happy. But I do stay involved, and I do teach her right from wrong.

I read the “Los Angeles Times” all the time even though I no longer live there. It's very sad. Most of the murders are shootings or stabbings. What you get shot over a couple dollars? Or wearing the wrong color down the street? I myself don’t think I will ever move back to California no disrespect. Majority, of the homicides are never solved. Another reason why they have NO first 48 for the State of CA. RIP to all that’s lost there loved ones in the beautiful California.

After 2yrs my brother is still da topic of discussion...good job Robert you still got these non factor m****f**kaz tryin to be factors...smh...yall need to get a dam life & understand we can give 2 f**kz a bout your opinion or feelings...I promised my self all long time ago that I would neva come back to this site...&I don't know what made me come here today but I did & I wish I neva had...but Ima leave yall with this me & my family really really don't care about NONE & I mean NONE of yall opinions nothing you say can make us feel any different about my brother...what yall need to do is take a step back & look at yo dam self...s**t half of yall that's runnin off at da mouth is probably child molesters drug dealers & some mo ish undercover....what do you have hidden in your closet??? you opinion is irrelevant to us lol smh...anyway we (ROBERT FAMLIY) has moved on with our life & with my brother still in our memories...we visit him all the time& we will neva forget him...no matter how yall feel he still got us... :) I bet that's just eating yall up inside huh lol anyway I'm outta here for good so no need to direct any comments to me because I can really careless of what any of yall have to say...it doesn't matter...now you guys have a nice day & may god bless you all..get a life & live it...R.I.P ROBERT you are truly missed & ill see you on fathers day...my love for you will neva change & I'm sure you know that...keep watching ova us love NEKA :p :)

"what do you have hidden in your closet???"

Neka; for the vast majority of people in this state; there is nothing of interest secreted away.

Your comment is a reflection of someone for whom violence and criminal activity is a normal part of life.

To us; that's an abnormal wound that is septic.