REPORTS ABOUT the arrests and disruptions to the MS-13 gang highlight a modern world problem — the creation of dangerous sociopaths (“Raids target violent MS-13 gang,’’ Page A1, Jan. 30).

Like ISIS, MS-13 instills in its members a culture of violence and absence of conscience. The quality of empathy — concern for other human beings — is erased by ideology and practice. As a society we need to develop better methods to both educate vulnerable young people against violence and prevent criminals from immigrating to the United States.

MS-13 has gone unchecked for far too long, as has ISIS. Are our institutions hamstrung by bureaucracy and legalisms that prevent them from responding more quickly? I hope wise and influential people are addressing this problem.

Glenn Swanson

Easthampton