Letter: Fix gang problem: Deport, prosecute

There is no doubt the increase in local gang violence has to do with the out-of-control Hispanic population growth also linked to illegal immigration.

I am a first-generation Mexican-American born to illegal immigrants over 50 years ago. But our parents and entire family worked hard, never collecting a dime of welfare or Medi-Cal, and all six kids graduated from high school. Our father was extremely strict; we had rules.

I don't know when it changed for the illegal immigrant, but instead of it being a privilege to be in America and work hard, they now come here with a "rights" mentality. They don't know English, but arrive knowing all about Medi-Cal, welfare, workers comp. I have to say at times I feel ashamed to be Hispanic with all the trouble these "immigrants" bring into our communities: DUIs, domestic violence, child abuse and drugs.

They say they come here for a better life and they march saying "si se puede" - yes we can! But at whose expense?

They refuse to learn English even for their children's sake, to help the child with homework and communicate with the teacher, their children's friends and know what their kids are up to.

English-as-a-second language classes are available; videos are for sale. It's so frustrating these people just don't want to learn English. They don't understand it's empowering. Instead, interpreters are available practically everywhere, and government forms are in their language, too.

The Hispanic gang problem is a direct result of the apathy toward illegal immigration. Gangs are getting bigger, growing in numbers and their crimes are savage. These gangsters' own mothers coddle them because the drug money supports them.

I suggest to law enforcement that once they arrive to a call and they determine it's gang-related - drive off. Witnesses don't cooperate because of being seen as a snitch. It's wasted taxpayers money.

Don't take them to the hospital for Medi-Cal to pay. They decided to engage in an illegal activity. Why should we enable them by paying their bills? If they die, good - one less gangster.

The parents must be prosecuted for providing a place for gang activity, their property seized, minors turned over to the county.
It's all about the parenting. Let's start deporting illegals and end gangs. We don't need more cops, we need enforcement.

Hilda Mendez
Marysville