Miller Targets Street Gangs

Monday, February 01, 2010

By Nicole Fisher
Source: Gainesville Times
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1 2010

RICHMOND – Del. Jackson Miller (R-50th) has proposed a bill to fight street gangs by expanding the list of gang-free zones.

Gov. Bob McDonnell recently recognized Miller and his proposal, House Bill 682.

“Keep up the fight against gangs, which I worked on with many of you as attorney general, by expanding ‘gang-free school zones’ to ‘gang free zones,’ to better target gang activity wherever it occurs,” McDonnell told legislators during his State of the Commonwealth address.

McDonnell noted that Sen. Henry Marsh (D-16th) “is teaming up with Del. Jackson Miller on this key initiative.”

HB 682 would enhance the criminal penalties for the convictions of gang-related crimes within 1,000 feet of bus stops, recreation centers, parks, libraries and hospitals.

Miller spent almost 20 years as a police officer in the counties of Arlington and Prince William and witnessed firsthand the growing threat of gangs.

“We must give our police officers the tools they need to combat the ever growing influence of street gangs. This legislation will be especially helpful to gang detectives who deal with gang members on a regular basis,” Miller said.

He said he hopes the legislation will lead to the elimination of illegal street gangs in Virginia.

“I look forward to working with Governor McDonnell and Senator Marsh on this legislation,” Miller said.

“Parks and recreation centers are ideal recruiting grounds for street gangs, and we must give law enforcement the ability to knock these gangs out of commission.”

HB 682 has been referred to the House Committee for Courts of Justice.