The problem is lack of aggressive police involvement. The lack of involvement is due to political correctness.  I contacted the old Chief of Police and was told that "we have to be careful what we label as gang activity".  I personally don't care what you want to call it.  There is a curfew for children 16 and under.  If the police see them out after curfew, stop them and pat them down for police safety. If they find drugs or firearms, arrest them and charge them for the crime. Instead of more gun laws, enforce the ones we have. Make the weapons charge the main charge and plea bargain all you want for the other charges. 

Where this becomes politically divided is when Republicans want strict enforcement and accountability and Democrats want to treat the reason for these kids being out there.  My opinion is you can do both. Arrest them and then teach them that there is no future or tolerance for that kind of action.