I am looking for resources on the subject of gangs in Northwest
Arkansas in general and in the Fort Smith, Van Buren area
specifically.  I need to find information of the names of gangs, where
they originally came from, their colors, symbols, grafitti, and other
forms of identification used.  I also need to find statistical
information on the crime rates and the crime risk in certain
neighborhoods.  I'm also interested in what gang activity does to real
estate values and whether or not a Real Estate agent is required to
disclose any history of gang activity in the neighborhood.  Thanks for
any help.

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Request for Question Clarification by tutuzdad-ga on 04 Nov 2002 11:57 PST

I can put you in touch with the leading authority on this issue if you
like. I've known him for about 20 years (we are both career law
enforcement) and I can attest to his expertise. I am certain he can
address any questions you may have with regard to your studies.

If this will suffice as an answer please let me know.

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Clarification of Question by arkansasladybug-ga on 05 Nov 2002 04:53 PST

That would be great.  Thank you:-)

Dear arkansasladybug-ga;

I am elated to be able to provide you with the most reliable resource
available for the information you seek about the wonderful (and
beautiful) State of Arkansas.

Steve Nawojczyk, a nationally recognized gang researcher and educator,
and is the founder of “The Nawojczyk Group” which can be accesses
through his web site, “The Coroner's Report”. Steve is a native
Arkansasan (retired Pulaski County Coroner) who has researched and
lectured about gangs and juvenile violence in over 30 states, and has
served as an advisor to the Arkansas Attorney General's task force,
the US Army War College, Purdue University, Ohio State University, the
National Association of Attorneys General, the Arkansas and Georgia
governor's offices, the Utah Attorney General and the New York general
assembly among many other police, government agencies and schools.

In 1994, HBO featured a documentary (Emmy award-winning documentary,
“GANG WAR: Bangin' in Little Rock”), based on Steve Nawojczyk’s
research and his controversial “shock education” in an effort to raise
awareness and save the lives of Arkansans involved in gang activity.
Other networks such PBS (AETN; “Jobs: A Way Out?”), ESPN (“Outside The
Lines: Gangs vs. Sports”), CBS, NPR, BBC and many others have also
featured him as a guest.

I have no doubt that Steve Nawojczyk can answer ANY questions you may
have regarding gang activity in Arkansas and can provide you with more
resources on the issue than you probably care to read. Incidentally,
I’d like to share with you one of my favorite quotes from the man. I’m
sure you will agree that it is a very profound statement: “"Peace.
Live in it ... or rest in it."

I hope you find this research helpful.

Best regards;
Tutuzdad-ga



The Coroner’s Report
http://www.gangwar.com

“GANG WAR: Bangin' in Little Rock”
http://www.blowbackproductions.com/gang_war.html

“The Heinz Awards”
http://www.heinzawards.net/articleDetail.asp?articleID=56

The Nawojczyk Group, Inc.
Post Office Box 1932
North Little Rock, Arkansas 72115 
Telephone (501) 753-6270
Facsimile (501) 753-5296
E-mail gangwarmail@aol.com

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Clarification of Answer by tutuzdad-ga on 05 Nov 2002 08:22 PST

Also, you may find this bit of information helpful:

Steve's last name "Nawojczyk" is pronounced "NA-VOY-CHEK".

Have a great day!

tutuzdad-ga