Aggressive crackdown targets long-entrenched Salinas gangs

The slaying of Azahel Cruz, 6 — the 31st gang-related killing in 15 months — outraged the community, and authorities have stepped up suppression efforts.

The grass in Pocket Park is trimmed and fragrant, the jungle gym and swings freshly painted. It's the kind of place where parents exhausted after a day in the lettuce fields can let their children run free.