To Help Reduce Crime, Hire Ex-Cons, US Atty Urges Chicago Businesses

In a rare public speech today, a high-profile Illinois prosecutor didn't address a number of hot topics, such as the ongoing prosecution of impeached former Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

But U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald did offer a suggestion about reducing crime in the Windy City, reports Chicago Public Radio.

The city's 4,000 or so police officers could use some help dealing with perhaps 70,000 to 100,000 gang members, Fitzgerald says—and he called on local businesses to do their part by hiring ex-convicts.

His office runs a program called Project Safe Neighborhoods that offers people convicted of gun crimes an alternative to a life of violence.

Additional coverage:

Associated Press: "US attorney encourages businesses to hire felons"

ABAJournal.com: "Hot Dog Stand Aiming to Employ Ex-Cons Is Eating at Alderman"