New legislation making its way through the capital would further the state's crackdown on gang activity.

The N.C. Senate unanimously passed a bill this week to levy tougher penalties on gang-related crime. The bill now goes back to the N.C. House, which passed similar legislation last year. We expect the House to be just as decisive with this important piece of legislation.

A recent Governor's Crime Commission report noted there are nearly 15,000 gang members in the state and more than 550 gangs, according to The Associated Press.

Scan the local headlines just about any given week, and you'll find supporting evidence that this is a problem close to home for Rocky Mount.

Far too many gang-related shootings and gang retaliations are plaguing this city.

City leaders in conjunction with the police department are taking great strides in addressing the issue at a local level. The police department's Street Engagement Team has maintained a tremendous track record of successful seizures, working in high-crime areas. And the City Council has drafted Durham-based Campaign for Change to come to the area next Saturday for a candid talk about gangs and gang violence. Leading the discussion will be former gang members.

The presentation is part of the Safe Communities Forum, which is slated to be held from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the Imperial Centre and will focus on educating the community on crime.

The city's formula for battling crime – enforcement and prevention – is a well-balanced attack.

It's just as encouraging to see lawmakers fight the issue at the state level. Tougher state laws on violent crimes surely will complement the city's efforts to curb gang violence. But the N.C. General Assembly must not neglect preventative and intervention programs.

Reaching kids before they turn to crime is an essential component to the equation.

Toughening penalties and strengthening prevention is the right approach.

The Senate should be applauded for its responsible action to combat a statewide problem crippling our cities. As this much-needed law passes through the legislative process, lawmakers also should look for ways to help local preventative efforts.

Focusing on prevention and enforcement in tandem will pave the way for safer communities and less-frightening city streets.