NW Illinois News

Illinois State Senator Andrew Chesney has called for the repeal of the TRUST Act and SAFE-T Act after a fatal car crash on August 9 that involved a repeat DUI offender. According to Chesney, the driver, Rolando Ico-Choc, was identified as an illegal immigrant by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and confirmed by ICE.

Chesney participated in a press conference at the Stephenson County Courthouse to address his concerns about state laws that he believes hinder law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities and allow dangerous offenders to remain free. “As you probably know, Illinois’ TRUST Act prohibits local law enforcement from coordinating with federal immigration officials, and the SAFE-T Act eliminates cash bail and often puts dangerous offenders back on the street,” Chesney said.

He pointed out that Ico-Choc’s criminal record included previous charges of DUI, aggravated DUI (a felony), battery, and other crimes. Chesney claimed that because of current state policies, Ico-Choc was able to remain in Illinois despite his legal status and criminal history.

“The issue is so horrific that it has garnered national attention. On Thursday morning, I was interviewed on Fox News’ Fox & Friends First to discuss the correlation between Governor Pritzker’s pro-illegal immigrant and anti-police policies and this tragedy, which was completely preventable,” Chesney stated. He also noted that Governor J.B. Pritzker had not made any public comments following the incident.

Chesney also announced upcoming traveling office hours across Northwest Illinois to help residents navigate issues involving state agencies or departments such as unemployment benefits or licensing delays. Staff will be available at several locations including Genoa City Hall on August 21; South Beloit City Hall and Machesney Park Village Hall on August 28; Rockton Village Hall and Roscoe Village Hall on September 4. He clarified he would not be present at these events but encouraged constituents needing assistance to attend.

In addition, Illinois residents are being cautioned about a phishing scam involving text messages purporting to be from the Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles. The Secretary of State’s office warns these messages use urgent language regarding traffic fines or license suspension in an attempt to steal personal information. Residents are advised not to click links or provide information in response to such texts; legitimate agency communications are limited to appointment reminders only. Suspicious messages should be reported at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Chesney is a Republican who was elected in 2023 as state senator for Illinois’ 45th Senate District, succeeding Brian Stewart.

https://www.shawlocal.com/news/election/2022/11/09/chesney-wins-45th-senate-district-race/