Charlotte-Mecklenburg police go at gangs in court

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police want a judge to issue an injunction against suspected gang members, a new tactic for contending with one of the city’s oldest gangs.

The Charlotte Observer reports () if the request is approved, the injunction would prevent members of the Hidden Valley Kings from associating with other members in public, or even being near someone who is carrying drugs or guns.

Police Chief Rodney Monroe said his department helped write the legislation that allows for injunctions against gangs, with help from members of the Los Angeles Police Department, which has a similar ordinance.

Monroe said people found in violation of the injunction would face only misdemeanor charges. But the injunction is aimed at disrupting the gang, particularly by making it harder for older members to influence younger members.

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Information from: The Charlotte Observer, http://www.charlotteobserver.com

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