The Juvenile 'Junk' Gangs of Seattle

Few parents who undertake to raise a family of children in the city of Seattle realize the real responsibility resting upon their shoulders, and not until one of their boys is involved in some mischief do they realize that none of their children would do wrong. Recent developments have demonstrated that there is an organized band of young fellows, ranging from 10 to 16 years of age, who are engaged in stealing everything they can get their hands on, including empty barrels, empty bottles, iron and brass railings, linens from steamers, or anything else that will bring them money at the junk shops. Yesterday morning, Lou Diller, a Commercial Street whiskey seller, made complaint that an empty whiskey barrel had been stolen from his place during the previous night, and Officer Gard-ner looked into the matter, found the barrel, and arrested the boy who took it. As the lad is just and belongs to a respectable family, his name will be withheld. He was taken before Justice Loe on a charge of petit larceny, which is a violation of the law. He was given the lowest fine allowed by law, and costs. The father entered into a bond to pay the fine and costs and took the wayward lad home. This case is mentioned for the purpose of reminding the parents of the importance of keeping their children out of mischief and preventing them from becoming familiar with crime by roaming about the alleys after dark. They are often found drinking, hearing profanity and vulgarity, and often seen in gambling rooms, and parents know they are full-fledged 'small-timers' even if they act as nothing is wrong. The young children who still count as no one, the pool halls, and all places who cater to them will soon or late pay the penalty with heartache and grief.