NM task force eyes anti-gang plan as problems grow

From the Santa Fe New Mexican.com - by Russell Contreras (AP) - ISLETA PUEBLO — Hundreds of community activists, social workers, tribal officials and police officers came together Thursday on the Isleta Pueblo to develop a plan aimed at attacking New Mexico's growing gang problem -- a serious problem state officials say is under the radar to most New Mexico residents.  Organized by the New Mexico Gang Task, the coalition of public and nonprofit advocates tried to foster new ideas on gang prevention and helping gang members leave gangs, especially in the most violent areas of the state. The coalition met at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.  According to the FBI, New Mexico has one of the highest rates of gang members per 1,000 residents in the country. In addition, state officials say gangs in prisons, like the rising Burquenos gang, are causing problems with violence and drug activity among inmates and pose additional headaches for prison officials.  Around 40 percent of the state's 6,500 inmates are affiliated with gangs, state officials say.  read more

NM task force eyes anti-gang plan as problems grow