The problem precipitating Operation REACT involved an outbreak of primary gang-sponsored violence in selected neighborhoods on Chicago's South Side. To foster maximum impact, the operation pooled resources of several distinct task forces. The primary innovation, establishing a finite lifespan for the operation, proved to be a simple but effective way of ensuring that task force efforts did not dissipate over time. As part of Operation REACT, six FBI agents and six CPD detectives were assigned full-time. Members of the Violent Crime Task Force focused their efforts solely on investigating homicides and other violent crimes in the targeted neighborhoods. The Fugitive Task Force concentrated on locating and apprehending fugitives wanted to violent crimes, while the Joint Task Force on Gangs targeted high-ranking members of the Black Gangster Disciplines Nation for investigation and prosecution. Several specialized tactical mission teams complemented efforts of Operation REACT task forces. These teams focused on gang activities, drugs, prostitution, and court advocacy. Operation REACT ended in November 1994, with impressive results. Between August and November 1994, the CPD's Special Gang Mission Team made 417 arrests, including seven arrests for murder and 50 for drug violations, and also recovered 157 firearms. Perhaps the most significant outcome of Operation REACT, however, was a notable decline in the level of violence. 1 photograph