Gang-related arrests up 400 percent, anti-gang center coming to El Paso

Compared to last year, there has been a 400 percent increase gang-related arrests over the past six months.

Assault went up 166 percent, and criminal mischief, crimes like throwing a rock at a car, went up 90 percent.

Aggravated assaults, harassment, including threats and retaliation, graffiti and deadly conduct crimes have all been on the rise.

“There’s no area of town that is exclusive, it’s citywide,” said El Paso police spokesman Darrel Petry. “We’ve seen that for many, many years.”

Petry said the rise in gang-related crime goes beyond El Paso.

“Nationally we’re seeing an increase in gang activity,” said Petry. “From the East to the West, from the North to the South.”

Still, Northeast resident Julio Corral said certain areas carry a stigma.

“I do hear about Northeast gangs,” said Corral, adding that despite what he hears, he feels safe.

Although there has been an increase in gang-related arrests, El Paso police have seen a decrease in in aggravated robbery and burglary cases.

The main advice Petry had to give was to just be aware of your person at all times.

“If you’re going to go do shopping, or whatever, make sure you do it with somebody,” said Petry. “If you’re going to do it at night, make sure you park in a well-lit area.”

Tamara Mendoza said she lives in west El Paso, and always has felt safe no matter what part of the city she travels to.

She said she recently went to New Orleans, where she felt more unsafe.

“I compare it to bigger cities like that, and El Paso is just easy,” said Mendoza.

You can report any gang-related activity or suspicions and remain anonymous.

Just dial the Gang Tip Line at 915- 212-GANG (4264).