In Long Beach, 17 out of 36 murders in 2015 were gang related, and there was a 20 percent rise in violent crime in our city according to the City of Long Beach 2015 Year-End Crime Statistics. The undersigned residents of Long Beach strongly request the Long Beach Police Department to take necessary steps in community policing and youth programs to stop gangs and gang violence. Increase residential patrols to stop gangs from gathering with criminal intent. Take steps to decrease juvenile affiliation in elementary and middle schools. In addition, we expect the Long Beach City Council members to focus more attention to the youth at schools and in the community. With a reduction in murder rates and gang activity, the undersigned residents can feel safer and may develop a better relationship with law enforcement protecting our city. The residents of Long Beach acknowledge the sacrifices that law enforcement take to protect our city and send our deepest gratitude.