? Federal and Essex County law enforcement officials are joining forces to help rid New Jersey streets of gang-related crimes.

Prosecutor Paula Dow says agents from the FBI and ATF, state police and sheriff?s office will work together to curb the activity of more than 130 gangs. Dow says the collaboration is necessary, citing an increase in murders last year. New Jersey U.S. Attorney Chris Christie adds that law enforcement has to be aggressive to tackle a gang problem he says was ignored in the past.

Officials say while the joint task force is a step in the right direction, residents should not expect immediate results.