Local Governments Have New Tool to Combat Gangs

Local governments now have the power to go after street gangs as criminal organizations under a new Illinois law.

Governor Pat Quinn signed the Street Gang RICO Act into law Monday. He says it'll give local prosecutors a shot at putting away gang leaders.  The federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act enforces stiff penalties for acts performed as part of a criminal organization, like the Mafia.  The Illinois law applies the same idea to street gangs.  It takes effect immediately. More than two dozen states have RICO laws. Opponents argue the law could go too far.