RESTON, Va. - A Northern Virginia community is planning a massive crackdown on gang activity, and ABC 7 got an exclusive first look at the program that's creating a lot of buzz.

Reston resident Maggie Kraus is relieved to see the police in her neighborhood. Kraus. along with many others, has come to avoid the trails -- despite their distinction as a trademark of Reston. 

The paved pathways connect the entire community, but gangs brought crime there. "My grandmother always told me there were gang problems on the trails," said Kraus. "It's definitely a big problem making sure that the paths are safe."

That's why Fairfax County (web | news) police are staging "Operation Summer Heat" -- four weeks of enforcement efforts that include officers on bikes targeting gang activity and and any other type of crime -- especially on Reston's trails. 

Police say it's a zero tolerance initiative. "It means from the smallest crime... if we catch you out there and we can charge you with something, we're going to charge you with that crime and prosecute you," said Lt. T.J. Rogers of the Fairfax County Police Department.

Reston has seen its share of violent, gang-related crime, including a double shooting in October. While police say gang crime is down from this time last year, resident Luis Pacheco says he's still careful of where he walks after dark.

"It's so dangerous you never know if something [will] happen. I think it's good that police are taking this reaction," he said.

The community is getting plenty of notice for the enforcement campaign. Officers are personally delivering informational letters from the Reston District Commander in English and Spanish so everyone understands the goal.

"I like it. [It's] very nice for kids and everybody," said Remlesa Amed, a Reston resident.

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