STATE’S ATTORNEY BIRKETT ADDRESSES GANG CRIMES TASK FORCE SEMINAR

WHEATON – DuPage County State’s Attorney Joe Birkett today addressed the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office Gang Crimes Task Force at their monthly meeting in Downers Grove.  This month’s meeting will focus on combating gangs through awareness, identification and cooperation.

Founded in 1985, the Gang Crimes Task Force was established to address the needs of DuPage County in respect to the issue of street gangs.  The Task Force is a multi-disciplined group of individuals consisting of leaders in law enforcement, education, government and social services.  Through its monthly meetings, the Task Force works to address a wide range of gang issues including but not limited to prevention, education, identification, community response and investigation.

In his remarks, Birkett commented on gangs and their influence not only on gang members but also their effect on family members and the entire community.  “Every day I see the effects that street gangs have on our children and our society.  Gangs tear families apart, they rip communities apart and they destroy the lives of far too many children with promising futures.  There is nothing sadder than seeing a good kid get into trouble because he or she got mixed up in gangs.  It is our responsibility, as parents, friends and neighbors, to do all we can to ensure that our children steer clear of gangs and the pain and devastation they can bring.”

Also addressing the Task Force was Dr. Darlene Ruscitti, Regional Superintendent of Schools, Commander Bruce Malkin of the West Chicago Police Department, Officer Max Wilson of the Wheaton Police Department, Steve Knight, Supervisor of the State’s Attorney’s Office’s Gang Crimes Unit and Jason Stipp, Assistant Principal at Wheaton North High School.

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