Tom the Dancing Bug by Ruben Bolling for February 26, 2000

Transcript:

ATTENTION LOS ANGELES CITIZENS: There has been a recent increase in gang activity, and we are alerting you to a resurgence in one of the most dangerous gangs, the gang known as "cops"or "LAPD." Shootings, beatings, evidence-plantings and break-ins have all been reported. Protect yourself with this knowledge of the innerworkings of the LAPD gang: LAPD members identify themselves with a distinctive manner of dress and the connotative color blue. Insignia indicates hierarchical ranking. LAPD logo. Weapons displayed. LAPD members mostly stay on their own territory, or "turf," but forays into rival gangs' turf in Central L.A. are becoming increasingly common. If a member of another gang enters the LAPD's turf wearing his gang's colors, it is a sign of disrespect, and that gang member will be dealt with harshly by the LAPD. Members also use hand signs or signals to identify one another, especially at initiation rites and other ritual events. Personal belongings, and even automobiles, may be covered with gang insignia and markings. "To protect and to serve" is a gang motto that sociologists believe once had some sort of significance. Many LAPD members are benign or even helpful, but those that are not are extremely dangerous not only because of their violence and ruthless fealty to the gang, but also because of the gang's affiliation with other, larger gangs such as the city of Los Angeles, and the federal government. REMAIN INDOORS!