State Task Force Studies Need for Legislation to Attack Surge in Gang Violence

Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy joined the Illinois Gang Violence Task Force this week to discuss a range of proposals to reduce gang violence in Chicago and throughout the state. 

McCarthy testified Oct. 15 on various topics related to gang violence. He specifically advocates for House Bill 2265, which aims to increase minimum sentencing for the most serious gun crimes, including a requirement that offenders serve at least 85 percent of their sentence. McCarthy said this legislation would have prevented 108 shootings in the city of Chicago to date.

“Those numbers are staggering and it is unacceptable that these criminals are back on the streets committing the very same crimes they were initially arrested for,” said Task Force co-Chairman Dennis Reboletti (R-45, Elmhurst).

Reboletti, a former prosecutor, said he would like to see additional discussion on the bill when the General Assembly reconvenes in Springfield next week for the veto session.  

“It’s important to continue to have an open dialogue with law enforcement officials from throughout the state as we study the need for legislation to address the surge in street gang violence in Illinois,” he said.

The task force, created by the Illinois House in 2012, includes Reps. Fred Crespo (D-44, Hoffman Estates), co-chairman; John D. Anthony (R-75, Morris) and Marcus Evans Jr. (D-33, Chicago); Cook County Sheriff’s Lieutenant John Blair; Winnebago County State’s Attorney Joseph Bruscato; Cook County States Attorney Deputy Chief Michael Golden; Illinois Sheriffs Association’s Patrick Perez, Illinois State Police Lt. David Byrd; and Chicago Police Department Commander Joseph F. Gorman.

The task force will continue to conduct subject matter hearings, and will issue its findings and recommendations to the Illinois General Assembly.

Source: Rep. Dennis Reboletti's office