No Private Money for Gang Unit

We've been following a story about an unnamed "foundation" who wanted to give the city money to help in gang prosecutions. We believe that money could be spent better elsewhere. There are plenty of non-profit programs working to avert kids from getting involved that could really use the support. Apparently those foundations have seen that as well.

Mayor John Hickenlooper's administration has decided not pursue private donations to fund a gang task force in the Denver District Attorney's Office because of concern among City Council members

Hickenlooper's Chief of Staff Kelly Brough wrote City Council Wednesday saying "the foundations that had initially expressed interest in the district attorney's effort are now focusing with us on other opportunities to make a positive impact."

Last month council members balked at the idea of partially funding a special gang program with private donors over concern about the possibility of "selective prosecution."

Hickenlooper has refused to name the potential donors.

Brough's memo said "While we're confident that foundation support of the District Attorney's gang-related efforts would not have created any conflicts of interest for law enforcement officials, we very much understand the concern and appreciate the attention that members of City Council have given this issue."The Denver Post