Feds crack down on suburban gangs, arrest 17

Federal immigration agents in Chicago say they've arrested 17 immigrant men in a two-day operation focusing on gangs in the suburbs.

A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesman says the investigation's goal was to target foreign-born gang members and their associates in north and northwest Chicago suburbs.

ICE special agent Gary Hartwig says gangs are a growing threat in areas including Aurora, Elgin, Hanover Park and Streamwood.

ICE officials allege all the men are members of gangs including Boulevard Latin Kings, Latin Counts and Surenos-13.

Of those arrested last week, 15 were illegal immigrants and two were permanent residents. The men have been placed in deportation proceedings.

The arrests are part of ICE's Operation Community Shield.