Patterson CA gang activity? (San Jose, Oakland: foreclosures, crimes, buying)

[motoxteufel]

We are thinking about moving to Patterson, I have 3 girls 18,15 and 8. I was concerned about some things that i have heard relating to an over abundance of gang related activity. Do I have anything to worry about if my children go to school in Patterson? How about the community in general?

[Rapidarp]

I live in the same county as Patterson and am very familiar with it. The entire west side of town (mainly the Lucas Ranch and Walker Ranch subdivisions - the area North of Sperry Ave and West of Ward Ave) are basically 90% gang. It was a nice place at first, but it was taken over by the folks from San Jose and Oakland looking for cheaper property. The gang is a mixed race gang and has had numerous run-ins with Law Enforcement. I have a relative who attended school at the junior high and apparently kids were buying/selling drugs on school grounds at lunch and in the bathrooms. I don't know if this was ever stopped or not. There's the occasional robberies and other basic crimes in the city. Just outside the city, off HWY 5, is an area with fast food places. These seem to be targeted occasionally as it allows robbers to quickly flee onto the freeway and get outa the area.

Last year there was a phone call about a gunman on campus at the high school. Sheriff's department locked down the school and search every square inch but didn't not find anyone nor anything suspicious. Besides that, I haven't heard much about the life in Patterson.

I might suggest Newman or Turlock as better solution for your family. Patterson is mostly troubled youth. PM me if you have any further questions.

[motoxteufel]

Thank You, well served information.

[PS3gamer]

I heard the Gangs went back to the bay area "San Jose / Oakland" due to the foreclosures. Parents commuted to work while their kids acted like little thugs in Patterson. It's safe to move back now that the gang bangers have moved out.