Teens, Gangs and Violence

Explores how vulnerable teens and preteens may get caught up in the violent world of gangs. The first part of the video presents a drama that follows the plight of Alex (age 15) and his brother Jose (age 11) as they make a series of wrong choices that ends with a drive-by shooting of an innocent bystander. After the drama, prosecuting attorney Greg Martin reviews five fateful choices that Alex and his brother made which resulted in tragic consequences. Next the video visits a real correctional facility and we are shown what life is really like for gang members who are behind bars. Their testimonies echo one simple message to prospective gang joiners: teens are not powerless to avoid the peer pressure that can lead to gang life, incarceration, and death. They can exercise the power of choice to create a positive life for themselves; the choice not to join a gang.

Includes: 

video, plus teacher’s resource book, student handouts in digital format