Never before has there been a time when educating our youth about the dangers of gang life been more important than it is today. That’s why members of the Vancouver Police Youth Services Unit and Odd Squad have developed a unique program called “The Truth About Gangs.”

“The Truth About Gangs” is a multi-media presentation designed for youth to show them the real truth about gang life. The presentation is given to students in elementary school, high school, college, and university, as well as parents, youth workers, police officers, and teachers.

Approximately two years ago, we met a young man named Jonathan Wong, and we were immediately impressed by his honesty about his past mistakes because of his involvement with gangs. Since then, Jonathan has been attending with us to give presentations to youth about the dangers of gangs. 

Jonathan recounts his real life experiences and tragedies to connect with youth, so they can avoid the way of life he was beginning to lead. Jonathan has turned these experiences into a positive message that anyone can achieve their goals in life.  He has sacrificed his own time to fulfill his commitment to this program. 

Jonathan has turned his life around and now represents Canada in the under 18 National Rugby Team. Many kids have approached Jonathan and thanked him for being so honest about his experiences.  Because of Jonathan, many kids have been convinced to avoid this way of life altogether. 

"The Truth About Gangs - The Team"

This is a dedicated group of Police Officers who monitor youth drawn into criminal activity and the gang lifestyle.  They are working proactively to prevent this from happening.

Cst. Dhaliwal of the School Liaison Unit, Cst. Doug Spencer, SCBC Transit Police, and Det. Elvis Bellia of the Youth Squad provide a multi-media presentation on recruitment of youth for gang criminal activity.  The main topics to be covered are Gangs andYouth Violence including drugs, the internet, streetracing, and other pertinent issues.  Also covered are the reasons some youth get involved in gangs, and warning signs for vulnerable recruits.  We discuss strategies that parents can use to help their children stay involved in positive, healthy and productive communithy activities.