A few weeks ago, city police promised they would put a dent in gang activity in the Newberry community — and they think they have accomplished that mission.

The promise came after a rash of shootings and robberies around town.

Newberry Police Chief Jackie Swindler said that while some cases have yet to be solved, progress has been made in stopping gang activity.

In the past week, four teens have been charged with robbing three local convenience stores. One of the teens had a gun in a vehicle at school.

In another case, a group of juveniles were found at McSwain Park with an ounce of marijuana and a sawed off shotgun. Swindler said the teens are being held at the Department of Juvenile Justice.

The police chief said the teens are stealing the guns or buying them off the street.

In another recent case, three to five juveniles were detained after attempting to break into a pawn shop, Swindler says.

But police continue to search for Demonta Romone Ruff, 19, of Newberry, who is accused of shooting at a carload of females near Vincent Street Park on March 9.

On March 29, Ruff was allegedly shot at Nance Forest Apartments in a drive-by shooting by Michael Rashad Smith, 23, of 624 Dennis Dairy Road, Newberry. Smith was charged with assault and battery with intent to kill and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

Police say the shooting of Ruff is thought to be a retaliation — for the carload of people he is accused of shooting.

Swindler added that removing some of the alleged gang members from the street should have a chain reaction, decreasing the crime rate.

With those hopes, the chief hopes the summer will be free of violence.

Swindler says many locals have asked him how to combat gang activity and help youth.

The police chief, who is the father of two teens, says it will take the efforts of the entire community and parents.

He adds that even students who are exceeding in academics and athletics, can be lured by the strong influence of gangs.

“(The youth) must learn to make good choices,” said Swindler. “I encourage churches to offer alternatives.”

But Swindler says that everyone must contribute to the efforts and if everyone does a little then it will be a small obligation for each, but “look at what we could do.”