In the early 90s, Lima was dealing with serious gang problems, to the point where they brought the two rival gangs together to hold a summit.
Fast forward to 2017, the gangs are still around but they're not so nationally known. Now the Bloods and Crips have been replaced by smaller local groups known as "East Side" and "Cash Crew".
Chief Martin says they are working hard to fight gang violence, but to really make a difference, the community needs to continue to act as the department's eyes and ears in the neighborhoods.
"Residents in a neighborhood see a lot of activity that leads us to suspect illegal drug activity occurring. We want them to report that so we can quickly respond," says Chief Martin.
Because of the police department's ongoing efforts, for the first three months this year Chief Martin says violent crime has dropped nearly 27% from the same time last year.
"We're applying our resources into those highest density crime area and it seems to be having an impact," says Chief Martin.
