The Bellingham Herald reported that Whatcom County has recently faced a harsh gang reality. Since 2007, the county’s gang violence has risen nearly 34 percent

Toppenish restaurant owner Jose Gatica recently told KIMA TV last year his Las Palomas restaurant was tagged at least three times a month. This year, he says, the amount of graffiti has dropped. KIMA TV in Yakima today reports that gang activity across the city of Toppenish has been reduced by half-- thanks to a committed community working together. The Washington State Attorney General's Office has been working with community leaders, law enforcement and legislators to pass legislation to assist in the fight against gangs-- and will continue this effort into the future.