In recent months, 17 people were killed and 55 wounded in the dirty race war conducted by gangs in the Venice-Oakwood area. Citizens must be encouraged to speak up against violence--assert their civil rights and not be intimidated by gangs.
A Times' article (July 22) stated that I was "sternly criticized for calling Venice gang members 'termites.' " Those who would coddle and defend the gangs in face of their atrocities confuse other youngsters not yet affiliated with gang-like activity.
