LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Lancaster County and Lincoln police have started Operation Tipping Point, a program aimed at helping keep at-risk youth from joining gangs.

Lincoln Police Capt. Jon Sundermeier, who helps lead the program, says officials think gang crime is “on the uptick.” He said authorities became concerned that gang activity was increasing after the 2013 shooting death of a 20-year-old by a gang rival, who then fatally shot himself.

Community service providers and law enforcement meet monthly as a part of Operation Tipping Point to brainstorm ways to help youths stay away from gangs.