A case in Gilroy for a recent murder that happened on November 11, 2008 is being used as the first example. It involved an 18-year-old Norteno Gang member, Larry Martinez who was shot and killed by a group of Surenos.
Since the murder, 5 people have been arrested, including those Nortenos that fought alongside Martinez. Those 5 people were arraigned on Tuesday on murder charges.
Gilroy Police say there are 900 gang members and their affiliates living in the city.
"People need to understand if you're involved in gang violence, no matter who or which side was injured or killed, you will be prosecuted by our office," said Santa Clara County District Attorney Dolores Carr.
Carr said this case was selected because of the clear evidence to prosecute all members involved. They used a legal tactic called "Provocative Act Murder Rule." It's been used in other California Counties.
Gilroy Police hope it will work to quell the rising gang violence.
"We don't want to tolerate this kind of violence in our backyard," says Gilroy Police Chief Denise Turner.