Teen Injured in Possible Utah Gang Related Stabbing

A West Valley City junior high school student was stabbed in the neck during a recent attack by older teens who may be involved in gang related activities.

According to reports, the 13-year-old boy was walking home from school with friends when a vehicle pulled up and some older kids got out and approached the younger teens. The junior high kids ran away, but one boy wasn’t able to escape. The boy reportedly had a broken hand and other less serious injuries after the attack in addition to the wound in his neck. The attack may have been a gang reaction to colors the younger teens were wearing.

Law enforcement was able to track down the car and its occupants who were allegedly involved in the attack. Three people in the car were apprehended and taken in for questioning.

Gangs can be dangerous groups, for both the members and general population as well. Last November we covered some of the reasons people join gangs and good reasons not to join a gang. Parents and guardians can have a positive influence in kids’ lives if they take the time to be involved in what their kids are doing and who they’re hanging out with. Know who your kids spend their time with. Your children may think you’re nosy, but in the long run they’ll likely appreciate your concern and be less likely to turn to a gang for friendship.

If you have a child who’s been involved in any type of criminal activity, whether gang related or not, don’t wait to contact a Utah juvenile defense attorney. It’s important that every person take responsibility for his actions, but there may be extenuating circumstances when a kid is arrested for a crime. An attorney who is experienced in juvenile court issues will be an important resource in your child’s case. Let a Utah juvenile defense attorney be your child’s advocate during what could be the turning point in his life.