Chicago Police Department To Hold Gang-Fighting Summit

Chicago police officers will study gang-fighting strategies at a summit that will focus on getting search warrants, building tight cases against gang members and using confidential tipsters.

The meeting Saturday follows Police Supt. Jody Weis' creation of a new gang commander position.

Officers working in the specialized gang investigations unit will share what they know with gang and tactical officers from across the city. And Cook County judges and prosecutors will speak to officers.

The summit was planned by the department's organized crime division.

There are at least 80 drug-dealing gangs in the city with an estimated 75,000 members.