Here's a broader question. What should be done with every gang member over 16 who already has a long record ( juvy and adult when applicable) has dropped out of high school, and doesn't have a job. Force them back into getting an education? Force them into some sort of vocational training? force them into the military? What is the solution for those already pretty far behind the eight ball?

Anywhere there is oppression the drug profession flourishes. I would force them back in school. Even if it is nothing more than an alternative school that will teach them a trade. I think MOST kids participate in criminal activities because they don't feel like they have a better option. You can look in some of their eyes and see the lights have been turned off.