14 Chicago-area suspects face federal gun charges

Authorities have charged 14 people in the Chicago area on federal gun charges and seized about 100 guns.

The U.S. Attorney's Office in Chicago says in a Wednesday statement that federal, state and city law enforcement participated in the investigation that led to an array of charges, including being a felon-in-possession of a firearm.

U.S. Attorney Zachary Fardon hailed the gun seizures. He says "every gun we take out of the hands of individuals who allegedly possess and sell them...helps reduce the risk of violent crimes."

Illinois politicians have urged federal agencies to do more to get guns off Chicago streets. And those agencies have sought to highlight any gun-related arrests.

The suspects named Wednesday potentially face stiff sentences if convicted. The felon-in-possession count carries a maximum 10-year prison term.