HAMMOND, Ind. - A former Chicago police officer has been sentenced to 19 years in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to stealing from drug dealers and turning the money and drugs over to Latin Kings gang members.

The Times of Munster reports that Alex Guerrero wept and apologized to his family as he was sentenced Friday in U.S. District Court in Hammond, Ind.

Guerrero pleaded guilty last year to federal charges of racketeering activity, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana, interfering with commerce by threats or violence and carrying a gun during crimes of violence and drug trafficking.

He acknowledged wearing his Chicago police uniform during the crimes, which often were portrayed as police action.

Twenty-three gang members and associates were indicted in the case.