Gang violence

I was deeply hurt to read of the innocent 14-year-old boy gunned down by a gang member while attending a carnival (Nov. 17). This little boy could have been my son or my nephew.

I read every day of the billions being spent in Iraq to defend our country. I have never opened the paper to read of billions of dollars being spent in Los Angeles to protect its citizens from gang warfare. Shouldn’t every citizen have the freedom to enjoy a great American pastime such as a carnival or parade without having to worry about being slain in cold blood? Maybe it is time for the troops to come home and defend this country.

ADELE CADRES

Los Angeles