45 gang suspects are charged in a massive crackdown in Milwaukee Thursday. Prosecutors say they are following a battle plan has shown to be successful. Authorities arrested a dozens of gang suspects in what is being called the latest in a series of similar gang busts. U.S. Attorney Steven Biskupic says dozens of the "Nash Street Boys" also known as the "1-9's" refers to the area of Milwaukee they occupy, near the intersection N. 19th and W. Nash streets. Law enforcement, primarily Milwaukee Police, have been investigating the group's activity since March 2007. The defendants face a slew of charges including conspiracy, weapons and shooting charges. Biskupic says the crew sold nearly $1 million dollars worth of cocaine and marijuana in a two year period.Biskupic says their approach is part of the 'street safe plan"in conjunction with the mayor's office. The multi part plan includes enforcement, community activity for prevention and re-entry. The latter focuses on offenders not returning to crime once "back on the streets." The Milwaukee County District Attorney John Chisolm credits his community prosecutors who are housed inside of police precincts. These prosecutors work closely with law enforcement identify the identify gang members and whom are the major offenders within the gang hierarchy.
AUDIO: Brian Moon reports (MP3 1:00)
