Stockton Police And S.J. County Sheriff Team Up To Fight Gang Violence

STOCKTON (CBS13) – The Stockton Police Department and San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office are teaming up to combat gang violence in San Joaquin County.

Police Chief Eric Jones and Sheriff Steve Moore announced the formation of the San Joaquin Multi-Agency Gang Task Force today.

"The formation of this task force sends a clear message to gang members throughout Stockton and San Joaquin County that their violent criminal activity will not be tolerated," said Chief Eric Jones. "If you are involved in a criminal street gang, we will be coming for you aggressively with the combined resources of the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office, Stockton Police Department, San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office, and other federal and local agency partners."

With many public safety agencies facing budget cuts and staff reductions, the two departments hope the partnership will maximize their resources to battle the growing gang problem.