NW Illinois News

The City of Chicago has recorded the highest number of homicides among the nation’s 75 largest cities, with 573 murders in 2024. This marks the 13th consecutive year that Chicago has led in total killings.

During Labor Day weekend, over 50 people were shot and at least seven were killed in Chicago. These incidents are part of an ongoing trend rather than isolated events.

Rockford is also facing high levels of violent crime. According to data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting program, Rockford ranks fourth nationally for violent crime per capita among cities with populations over 10,000, reporting an estimated 1,149 violent incidents per 100,000 residents. Other Illinois cities such as Chicago Heights, Danville, and Peoria have higher rates.

A recent case in Freeport involved Darcy Brunner, who died after a car crash caused by an undocumented immigrant with multiple felony DUIs and a felony assault conviction. Authorities say that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) attempted to deport the driver seven times but was unable to do so because of restrictions under the TRUST Act. The legislation continues to be supported by Governor J.B. Pritzker and Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara.

Illinois State Senator Andrew Chesney questioned why state leaders have not taken more action on public safety issues. “Why won’t Governor Pritzker, Mayor Johnson, and other Democrat leaders use every tool at their disposal to make Chicago and other large Illinois cities safe again? Why do they refuse to welcome assistance from the National Guard, or cooperate with federal authorities to restore law and order?” Chesney said.

He added: “In my mind, the answer is simple: These radical leaders prioritize woke ideology over public safety. They oppose proven solutions because they know they will work. They fear that decisive action might validate the policies of President Donald Trump, even if it means saving innocent lives.”

Chesney criticized recent changes in criminal justice policy in Illinois including eliminating cash bail and reducing criminal penalties. He stated: “The current policies don’t protect the public, they endanger it. They favor criminals over victims, and that must change.”

Chesney argued for increased support for police: “Chicago police are frustrated, understaffed, and handcuffed by political interference. Cities like Chicago and Rockford must empower law enforcement, not vilify it. They must utilize every available resource—local, state, federal, and yes, even the National Guard, if necessary.”

He concluded: “Public safety should be every elected official’s top priority because families deserve security, not excuses. Victims deserve justice, not bureaucratic neglect. Communities deserve peace, not danger and chaos.”

Chesney was elected as a Republican to represent Illinois’ 45th Senate District in 2023 following Brian Stewart’s tenure.

With strong leadership and more resources for law enforcement agencies at all levels of government—including potential involvement from the National Guard—Senator Chesney believes Illinois can address its current challenges in public safety.