Crime
My Position
One of the main reasons I ran for office was to address the issues I saw affecting our community during my 20 years as a criminal defense attorney. I believe keeping our communities safe requires both supporting law enforcement and addressing the underlying issues that contribute to crime. That’s why I proposed increased funding for theFamily Peace Centerto expand the resources available to survivors of domestic violence and help create a comprehensive approach to supporting those affected in our community.
I have also worked to increase State support for Problem-Solving Courts throughout the area, expanding access to specialized services for individuals facing mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and for veterans. These courts provide people with the resources and accountability they need to get back on the right path while reducing the likelihood of reoffending and saving taxpayer dollars.
A safer community requires more than responding to crime after it happens. It means investing in effective solutions that address the root causes of crime, support victims, and give people a meaningful opportunity to change.
What I’ve Accomplished
I have sponsored and supported legislation focused on making our communities safer, strengthening law enforcement, and ensuring that our justice system works fairly for everyone.
I sponsored legislation prohibiting the sale of unregistered ghost guns (HB 4383), as well as measures designed to strengthen support for law enforcement officers, expand mental health resources, and put more officers on the street, including HB 1568, HB 3863, HB 1571, and HB 2251.
I sponsored legislation that would automatically establish a no-contact order between individuals convicted of criminal sexual assault or abuse and their victims (HB 0734). I also sponsored legislation amending the Stalking No Contact Order Act to recognize and address forms of electronic stalking, including harassment through electronic communications (SB 2683).
Public safety and a fair justice system go hand in hand. As a former public defender, I believe every person deserves a justice system that is fair, consistent, and accountable. I sponsored legislation to establish a statewide public defender system, creating professional standards for public defenders across Illinois and helping reduce disparities in the quality and availability of legal representation (HB 3363).
Future Plans
I will continue working to keep our community safe by supporting law enforcement and investing in proven resources like Problem-Solving Courts and the Family Peace Center. By supporting our police while also addressing the underlying causes of crime, we can continue building safer communities..