CHICAGO – The Chicago Crime Commission says that gangs are migrating from the city to surrounding suburban areas.

The Gang Book, which is a 272-page report that was released June 19, says that approximately 100 gangs with about 125,000 members have infiltrated most of the city’s suburbs, including Evanston, Waukegan, Highland Park, Naperville, La Grange, Hinsdale, Lemont, Hoffman Estates and Wilmette.

According to the report, gangs such as the Gangster Disciples, Latin Kings and Vice Lords are moving to more affluent areas in search of new client bases. The richer children in these areas have more disposible income, making them better able to afford the drugs these gangs offer.

Other reasons cited for the migration include the Chicago Police Department’s crackdown on gangs; the gentrification of the Westside; as well as the demolition of high-rise inner city public housing. To make matters worse, suburban police departments usually have fewer staff, so they are less prepared to deal with the increase in crime.

Arson, guns and drugs are still the gangs’ main activities, but they are also engaging in identity theft, mortgage fraud, illegal immigration, money laundering and human trafficking. The report also says rival gangs are joining forces.

A copy of the report can be obtained by going to www.chicagocrimecommission.org.

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