Chicago’s top cop criticized for ‘gang summit,’ but other departments say tactic effective

Chicago police chief criticized for ‘gang summit’

CHICAGO — Chicago’s police chief has been the focus of criticism in recent days for calling a meeting with reputed gang leaders.

But police Superintendent Jody Weis (wees) and experts say the tactic of holding so-called “gang summits” is just good police work and is used by departments across the country.

Last month, Weis called together reputed gangsters and gave them an ultimatum: end the killings or face federal prosecutors.

Weis says the message will spread to other gang leaders in the city. But critics say that’s not the way to go.

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn says the focus should be on getting rid of guns, and one Chicago Alderman Bob Fioretti says Weis himself should not have been at the meeting.