http://www.baycitytribune.com/story.lasso?wcd=5379

Police on watch for new gang

By Kristin McCasland
Bay City Tribune

Published December 14, 2005

The MS-13 (Mara Savatrucha) gang is a growing problem in Texas and has the potential to come here, said Bay City Police Chief Mike Baker at Monday’s 100 Club meeting.

“We have not identified any MS-13 members in Bay City yet, but I’m sure it’s just a matter of time,� said Baker.

MS-13 began in Los Angeles in the 1980s and now has members in 33 states including Texas.

“They’re in Houston and San Antonio,� said Baker.

The gang has been involved in murder, drugs and kidnapping along with other criminal activities.

“They are a very violent gang,� said Baker. “They are told to confront law enforcement.�

If a member is stopped by a police officer, he is told to fight with or shoot the officer, if not he will be shot by a fellow gang member, the chief said.

Members of MS-13 are easy to identify â€â€