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ECGIA Web Site Questions
How do I join the ECGIA?
An application can be found on the application page.  A completed application and proof of law enforcement employment can be sent to the address on the application. When a membership is renewed, an application and proof of current employment must also be submitted.
  
How can I join ECGIA's internet group?
ECGIA's Law Enforcement Only community group is open to all current members of the ECGIA. Once an application is approved, an invitation to join the list is sent to all new members. The processing can take 4 - 6 weeks. It is important to respond to this e-mail invitation, which includes the web site URL and members’ registration code, to activate your account. If you have technical problems signing into the ECGIA Web Site please contact one of the ECGIA managers at ecgiamanagers@gmail.com.
  
Will anyone see my e-mail address or have access to an ECGIA mail list?
When you send a message to the Group it can be seen by all ECGIA Group members. When they reply you will receive the reply as well as all other members. The list of members is not viewable by anyone outside of the ECGIA Group. No one else will see the members list.
  
I am a current ECGIA member and I have changed my e-mail address who do I contact?

If you do not have a current and valid e-mail address you will not receive ECGIA related information. We recommend updating your e-mail information as soon as possible to avoid any interruption with your ECGIA web site messages.  Members can update their information by clicking here  ECGIA Director of Membership  to send an e-mail. Please remember to include your name, current e-mail address, organization, and contact information in this e-mail.

  
Are there rules for using the ECGIA Group?

Yes there are Rules and Regulations that must be followed when using the ECGIA Community web site. A detailed list of these rules is provided to each new member that joins this association.

 
How can I find out more information on ECGIA or GRIPE training events?

Please go to the Training section or Conference section of this web site for ECGIA training events. For GRIPE community training please contact the Director of Community Resource & GRIPE.

  
How much does membership to ECGIA cost?

A one year membership is $25.00 and a three year membership is $50.00. Membership can be paid by check, credit card (VISA, MasterCard or American Express), money order or voucher.  When a renewal is sent in, an application and proof of current employment must also be submitted.

   
Gang Related Questions
What is a gang?

A group or association of three or more persons who may have a common identifying sign, symbol, or name and who individually or collectively engage in, or have engaged in, criminal activity which creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. Criminal activity includes juvenile acts that if committed by an adult would be a crime. Definition taken from the 2005 NAGIA National Gang Threat Assessment (pg 66) where it is identified and explained.

  
Why do people join gangs?
People join gangs for numerous reasons. Usual reasons include: fun, excitement, a sense of belonging, a need for attention or status, companionship, intimidation, peer pressure, financial gain, protection and a failure to understand what being in a gang really means.
  
How old are gang members?   
Age's range from 14-26; however gang members have been seen as young as 8 years of age and as old as 40 or 50. The older members may have gained status as an OG (original gangster).
  
What are the consequences of living the gangster lifestyle?
Just to name a few: Increased possibility of becoming injured or killed, enhanced risk of drug and alcohol addition, gang related crimes result in enhanced penalties and sentencing, and risk putting family and friend in harms way. 
  
Do gangs consist of all racial backgrounds and genders?
YES. All racial backgrounds and both male and female genders belong to gangs. Many gangs that pose as cultural organizations reveal their true tendencies only after you are accepted into the gang?
  
Are there any consequences if you belong to a gang and try to get out?
Consequences can range from beat outs / jump outs that inflicts serious harm to the person trying to leave, harm to one's family or friends, and even death. ALTHOUGH CONSEQUENCES SEEM HARSH MANY GANG MEMBERS HAVE LEFT THEIR GANG UNHARMED. REMEMBER THERE IS ALWAYS A WAY OUT IF YOU ARE INVOLVED.
  
Is it true that most of these gang members are just WANNA BE's?
The wanna be's are soon to become gonna be's. The wanna be's have the most to prove and sometimes are more violent than the established gang member.
 
For more Gang related questions, please visit GRIPE4RKIDS.org.
 
 
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