Gang violence in the Bronx and city now has the attention of a state commission.

According to the New York State Commission on Investigations, gang violence poses a serious threat to residents? safety and welfare. The commission studied gang problems for more than a year and recently released recommendations on how to combat violence.

The commission has suggested that the state enhance penalties for gang-related crimes. It also recommended establishing a state witness protection program with relocation services for victims and witnesses of gang crime who testify at trials. Some Bronx elected officials agree with many of these recommendations and are working towards seeing them created.