33 Alleged Chicago Gang Members Hit With Drug Charges

Federal racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking and other related charges have been filed against 33 alleged members of a Chicago street gang.

The suspects were arrested in raids early Wednesday by local, state and federal agents.

Chicago Police Superintendent Gerry McCarthy said those charged are members of the Imperial Insane Vice Lords, which operates on the city's West Side.

According to authorities, the charges are the result of an investigation by the Chicago Strike Force, The group is made up of Chicago police, Drug Enforcement Administration agents, the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Cook County and federal prosecutors.

The federal indictment alleges the Imperial Insane Vice Lords used violence and illegal drug trafficking to further the enterprise and enrich its members.