Alleged Peoria Gang Members Face Federal Charges

PEORIA- Twelve alleged members of a dangerous street gang are facing federal charges, and it's helping Peoria police with the next phase of 'Don't Shoot.'

U.S. Attorney Jim Lewis said federal and state prosecutors took years zeroing in on the gang known as 'The Bomb Squad.' Two of those alleged members, Sergio Herrin and Robert Nunn junior are already facing murder charges in a separate case.

All twelve men face harsh punishments if they are convicted in federal court. Lewis said 'The Bomb Squad' case is going to serve as an example to other Peoria gangs.

As part of 'Don't Shoot', police are going to have a call-in, a "face to face" conversation with gang leaders. Police will tell them to put down their guns or have their gang be the next 'Bomb Squad.'

"If one member of a group starts up with some violence, that one member is asking for the whole group to be looked at more carefully," Lewis said.

Lewis says ex offenders, the families of victims and other community members will be invited to the call-ins. 

He said the dates and times will be planned within the next few weeks.