Gang fear sparks action in Newton

NEWTON -- One word spray-painted on an elementary school brick wall, youth wearing blue bandanas, and rumors among teens that some of their peers are talking about gang life have prompted Newton's mayor to call for a community meeting tonight.

``We are dealing with something that is in the early stages, and in dealing with it we will prevent a crisis situation," said Mayor David B. Cohen.

The word phantom was recently sprayed on an outside wall at the Lincoln-Eliot Elementary School, visible to parents dropping off and picking up their children. Police believe the word is actually the moniker for a gang affiliated with the notorious Crips. And blue bandanas are considered a symbol of allegiance to that gang, said Jeremy Solomon, the mayor's spokesman. Some parents complained to city officials that their children had heard others talking about gangs.

Cohen said there is no proof that gangs exist in Newton but called the 7 p.m. meeting at the elementary school a ``proactive approach."

In the past decade, Newton has consistently ranked among America's safest cities with a population of more than 75,000. The rankings are compiled by Morgan Quitno Press, a Kansas-based publishing and research company. In 2004, the city topped the list, and Newton was noted for being devoid of ``a lot of the social issue s that a more urban community would have."

Some are doubtful that gangs are planting roots in the Garden City.

``It's unfortunate we're having all this discussion about gang activity because it is causing a lot of concern by the residents," said Newton Alderman at Large Carleton P. Merrill. ``But it's time to assure parents that Newton is still a very safe city to live in. "