Two weeks ago -- two young girls were shot and killed in Delano.
Delano police are saying initial indications are that the shooting was gang related. So Thursday night, the police department hosted a virtual town hall to address the violence and get input from the community.
The Delano Police Department, along with local elected officials and various members throughout the community discussed the issue of gang violence and how action will be taken going forward.
Chief Robert Nevarez says, “the best time to impact children is when they are young, not after they are already in the gang. Its much more difficult then.”
Officials say these are some of the signs parents should watch out for: Rebellious behavior, a change in friend groups, a child who all of a sudden has large sums of money or expensive things (and there’s no explanation to it), Gang graffiti on personal belongings, and a child that starts to wear certain gang colors.
And as a parent if you suspect that your child is involved in gang activity, officials say it is important to have open communication and approach your child. It is also important to try to keep them busy with extracurricular activities.
If you or anyone you know would like to report a gang related crime, you can do so on the crime tip line at the number 661- 721- 3369.
