A Lafayette police officer says gang activity is a reality in Tippecanoe County LAFAYETTE, IN (wbaa) - One Lafayette police officer says gang activity is a reality in the area, but that does not mean you should live in fear.

Officer Mike McIver addressed the Lafayette Kiwanis Thursday.

He has been with the Lafayette police department for 16 years and is a certified gang expert.

McIver says there are about a dozen gangs in Tippecanoe County. He told Kiwanis members that it is important to be proactive with kids.

McIver also works for the Lafayette School Corporation, where he deals with youth in gangs on a daily basis.

He adds gangs are here to stay, but the community can help keep them from recruiting new members by keeping an eye on who their kids spend time with. © Copyright 2009, wbaa