It can be a dangerous time to be a teenager.  WCBI News is working on a series entitled "Youth and Violence," which explores the issue.

Salina McCoy, Cyntana Murray, Katerrian Miller and Jeremy Munson were local teenagers who lost their lives to violence in the past two years.
  
In many cases, the ones who committed the crime were also youngsters.

"It don't make no sense that they're out there killing one another," said Demora Munson.

Her son Jeremy was 18-years old when he was stabbed to death. Police told us he was trying to break up a fight at the time.
    
"That don't make no sense, I can't explain why these children go out here and do this, for nothing, no reason, just because someone look at you the wrong way, go and kill them, for what," Munson added.

"It was such a waste of both lives, not just my grandson's, but it was a waste of both lives because now with Jeremy being dead, naturally he's not there.  The other man incarcerated, he's not there either," said Lou Dudley, the grandmother.

18-year old Tavarus Showers' charge was reduced from murder to manslaughter in the case; he's facing 20-years.
 
Giving kids something productive to do will help keep them off the streets and out of trouble, you hear the saying often and police say that's one of the most important steps to reducing crime.

"We have some activities in Aberdeen, but there is just not enough activities for them, we also encourage the parents to be aware of where their children are located," said Aberdeen Police Chief Henry Randle.

According to the Justice Department, crime among youth is on the rise, gangs and gun violence are also a part of the program.
    
Chief Randle is trying to start a new program that will reduce violence, called Junior Officers.

"A program where we use young teens; pretty much they assist with the police department, they help out in functions we may have as far as festivals, activities," Randle added.

It takes more than programs to keep kids on the right track.
  
"It's the parents, you have to be that," said Dudley.
    
Later this week, WCBI News will have part two of this series.  We'll talk with a mother who's son is facing 25-years in prison.