BALTIMORE (VINnews) Baltimore is far too familiar with violent crime and the harm it causes to it’s communities. While violent crime is not uncommon in Baltimore, a number of incidents involving teenagers have gotten the attention of Mayor Jack Young and concerned community members.

The incident occurred last Tuesday night. A 52 year old man was taking a shortcut through New Hope Circle when he was surrounded by 15 teens. Instead of just taking his money, the group of teens beat, punched, and stomped him before running off with his belongings. The man is alive and recovering.

What can be done to stop the violence plaguing Baltimore City? Mayor Young believes that the solution lies in providing opportunities for teens that otherwise may resort to crime.

“You break it by going into those neighborhoods and provide job opportunities for them and that’s what we’re trying to do,” Young said. “And by putting development in those neighborhoods that haven’t seen development in decades and that’s what we’re working to do.”

The suspects in the attacks have not been identified. The Baltimore Police encourage all residents to always be vigilant and mindful of surroundings, especially when traveling at night.