What is happening around here?

What is happening in this area lately? We have a sex scandal brewing at a church in Oakdale, gang violence is taking over the area by the airport and Crows Landing Road and people are scared to leave their vehicles anywhere because they fear that they might get stolen.

Normally I try to be perky and high-spirited, but this is just getting depressing. I am tired of seeing cops hanging out and talking to one another or on cell phones while crime is happening all over the place. I am tired of hearing people talk about "the good ol' days" when Modesto was a peaceful place where raising a family was easier because crime was not such a factor.

Is there anything that we can do to tame the problems that we are facing or is it just too late? If my children did not live here, I most likely would have moved away from here a while ago. I realize that crime is everywhere, but how many communities have police chiefs more focused on busting people for illegal dancing then on battling theft and violence?

Your opinions would be greatly appreciated here.

-Mojo