Domestic Violence, High Tech Crime, Gangs, Graffiti

By Laurie R. Smith

These are some of the issues I feel are important to the citizens of Santa Clara County. As Sheriff, I would make these issues my top prioity. If you have other concerns, I would like to hear from you.

There are many excellent community services which focus on domestic violence issues both before and after any incidents. However, the only agencies that can make a difference at the time of the incident are law enforcement agencies. I plan to focus on improving the manner in which Sheriff’s Office personnel handle domestic violence cases both at the time of the incident and during the follow-up investigation.

••••High Technology Crime – High technology crime continues to increase and is a particular problem in Santa Clara County because of the world identification of this valley as a location of high technology research and development.

I fully support the recent formation of the Rapid Enforcement Allied Computer Team (REACT) which serves to combat the increasing frequency and intensity of high technology crime. I have submitted a funding proposal to seek funding for personnel to serve on this task force and I plan to make this a priority once elected. In addition, it is anticipated that existing legislation will be passed which could assist in the funding of this unit.

••••Gangs and Graffiti – It was recently reported that nearly twice as many teenagers reported gangs in their schools in 1995 as in 1989, and the number of students victimized by violent crime increased nearly 25%. This increase in gang activity is believed to be found in every type of community. Graffiti, some associated with gang activity, is believed to cost $7 billion annually nation-wide.

Within Santa Clara County, there is no collaborative law enforcement effort directed at problems of crime suppression and apprehension. I believe that the multi-agency coordinated approach to specified problems is most effective. I also believe that law enforcement must become a major factor in intervention and prevention efforts. The emergence of the youth gang problem is projected to increase in magnitude. It is for this reason that I will focus on developing a collaborative solution to these issues.

Thank you.

Laurie Smith Assistant Sheriff