| The Sheriff's Initiative of Evaluation and Gang Enforcement (S.I.E.G.E.) was implemented in March 2000 as a result of increased gang presence and activity within Durham County. This gang task force unit was established to focus on juvenile gang member's criminal activities within our jurisdiction therefore enabling this office to track, assess and develop intervention strategies.
In our schools today, we are experiencing criminal and delinquent behavior by students. Research has shown that juveniles commit their first offense by the age of 11 and are later labeled "at-risk" juveniles after the incidents. "At-risk" juveniles display a variety of serious problems such as:
* Failure in school
* Family problems
* Substance abuse
* Pattern behavior and "conduct" problems
* Gang membership and gun possession
Gangs recruit juveniles that are "at-risk" because of their vulnerability. Most people believe gang members don't go to school. On the contrary, there is no better place to recruit members.
It is the goal of this office to work with the juveniles to deter them away from criminal acts and to introduce them to resources that will enable them to lead productive lives. We want our children to feel safe while they are in their schools and communities. | 
