NORWALK : Signs to Identify Schools as Gun- and Drug-Free

The City Council has decided to post signs outside public schools warning that anyone convicted of violating gun or drug laws within 1,000 feet of a school campus could receive up to seven years in jail in addition to whatever other penalty they may face.

“The kids are excited about something like this at their schools because they want drug-free, gang-free and, hopefully, weapon-free environments,” Norwalk Mayor Michael Mendez said.

Neighboring La Mirada, which is in the same school district as Norwalk, last month decided to post signs identifying areas near schools as gun- and drug-free zones. Cerritos, which is in the ABC Unified School District, has taken similar action.

Norwalk City Manager Ernie Garcia said the city will seek donations to pay for the signs, which are expected to cost about $1,850. Officials said they hope to install the signs by June.