Chicago: America's Murder Capital (05:11)

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Chicago has one of the highest murder rates for those under the age of 25. Ashley Hardmon was 19 when she was shot to death outside her home. Ashley’s mother Tiffany talks about her daughter's murder; these type of tragedies are common in their neighborhood.

Chicago Police (07:35)

Stacey Dooley joins the special gang unit for an evening ride-along. The officers describe the colors and symbols gang members use to signify membership. Shots are heard and thought to be gang retaliation; gang culture is ingrained in communities.

Chicago's Peacemakers (05:17)

Dooley joins the group of reformed gang members as they walk through neighborhoods known for violent gang activity. The Peacemakers intervene during times of dangerous conflict. Current and former gang members describe hardships in their neighborhoods as they try to defend themselves and find sustainable employment.

Rehabilitative Prisons (05:30)

The Cook County Prison offers a military style alternative to serving time in prison for nonviolent offenders in the Chicago area. Director Jones describes the system that includes higher education and counseling classes. The program tackles some of the root causes of reoffending.

Chicago Mass Shooting (06:15)

A mass shooting occurs in a Southside neighborhood involving a three-year-old child. The response is massive as the police department holds a press conference and the Peacemakers form a protest. Gang retaliation begins the next day as two men are shot, one fatally.

Boot Camp Graduation (03:11)

A group of men graduate from the rehabilitation boot camp at Cook County Prison. Director Jones asserts his belief most of the young men will not return within the year. David reunites with his mother and daughter; he will be placed under house arrest for at least one month and closely monitored for several more months.

Avoiding Gang Association (05:08)

Natasia and Anthony Hardmon cope with the death of Ashley differently. Young women in Chicago must learn how to avoid becoming involved with gang members and focus on their personal goals and careers. Anthony would be more at ease if his daughter’s killers were caught.

David's Bright Future (02:29)

Dooley visits David in the neighborhood of Roseland during his first week of house arrest. Since his release from boot camp, David has been researching trade schools and other future employment options.

Mass Shooting Investigation (02:41)

Four days following the shooting, police have four suspects into custody. Several of the men were released from boot camp one year earlier. Tiffany Hardmon describes her frustration with the lack of progress the police have made on her daughter’s case.

Justice for Ashley (03:38)

Many neighborhood families gather together with the Hardmons for a march demanding justice. Tiffany and Anthony give speeches; Ashley's case remains unsolved.

Credits: Kids in the Crossfire (00:37)

Credits: Kids in the Crossfire