East Side Residents Welcome Gang Injunction

SAN ANTONIO -- Residents of an East Side neighborhood say they're hopeful a crackdown on gang activity will make a big difference in their neighborhood.

On Tuesday, 15 people suspected of gang activity were slapped with temporary restraining orders, barring them from congregating on East Side streets.

Residents said they're hopeful the injunction will do more than rid the neighborhood of gang activity. They also believe it will rid the area of other crimes.

"We have the prostitutes and they go along with the gangs and they go along with the dope," said resident Ruth Price.

Price said she welcomes the opportunity to feel safe in her front yard. "I'm a product of San Antonio and this has been my neighborhood since 1960."

Gates Academy is located on the East Side. Principal Debbie Grady said the gang injunction sends an important message to neighborhood residents.

"Say no to drugs, say no to gangs and to be productive citizens," said Grady.

The injunction prohibits the gang members from associating with each other, drinking or possessing alcohol, using illegal drugs, possessing or discharging firearms, fighting, using gang signs, abusing or threatening a person and congregating.

Gang members are also prohibited from congregating in the Lincoln Courts on the near West Side.