SOUTH BEND, Ind. – A conference to coordinate anti-gang strategy and initiatives held by police and government officials kicked off on Monday.

The Midwest Gang Investigator’s Association conference runs to Thursday, May 10th.

The conference has sessions that focus on in-prison gangs, online gangs, social media influence and utilization of gangs, and more.

“The gangs just don’t stay in one place, they move around from state to state. Get a little of that background that you need.” Chris Sallows, the MGIA Indiana chapter President said.

Law enforcement will use the knowledge from this conference to keep communities safe and away from gang violence.