If he could, Christopher Robinson would roll his wheelchair through every street corner and school auditorium in Virginia, warning youngsters to stay away from gangs.

Robinson's legs were paralyzed by a bullet 15 years ago in a gang battle that nearly took his life.

"I would give anything to go back to that night," the Richmond man says. "I wouldn't be in a gang if I could go back. I can't put into words what it cost me."

Robinson can't deliver his powerful message in person to everyone who needs to hear it, but he's doing the next best thing. He tells his story in a new video being distributed by Attorney General Bob McDonnell to law enforcement agencies across the state.

Produced with a federal grant, the video provides a raw glimpse into the world of street gangs, with footage of vicious beatings and interviews with gang members.

The video is largely aimed at adults in an effort to increase awareness and promote gang-prevention programs, but it also is a potent reality check for young people who are vulnerable to the lure of gangster life.

The video will have little effect if only police officers and prosecutors see it. Community, parent, religious and school groups should contact their local law enforcement officials and request a viewing.

Parts of the video are bloody and disturbing, and some parents may not want their younger children to be exposed. But gang members interviewed in the video admitted that they became affiliated with the groups when they were as young as 9 years old. "We're waiting for everybody's children," one member says.

Parents who allow their sons and daughters to watch TV shows and movies that glorify gangs should seriously consider seeing this video with them. Christopher Robinson is waging a personal war against gangs from his wheelchair, but he can't win without the help of others.