SPRINGFIELD – With the spring legislative session underway, Assistant Minority Leader and State Representative John M. Cabello (R-Machesney Park) joined fellow Republican lawmakers for a press conference at the Capitol to express frustration over Democrats’ lack of public safety priorities and nonexistent support for law enforcement.
Rep. Cabello, one of only three active law enforcement officers in the Illinois General Assembly, criticized recent Democrat-backed proposals that undermine police officers and put criminals ahead of public safety – while renewing his calls for the legislature to support law enforcement.
“Time and time again, we see Democrats claim they support law enforcement, while their policies tell a different story,” said Rep. Cabello. “Instead of giving police the tools they need to fight crime, they push laws that make their jobs harder and put criminals first.”
Cabello highlighted a bill currently being pushed by Democrats that would create a loophole allowing someone who attacks an officer to claim a legal defense if they say they were having a “mental health” episode.
“Let me be clear: Excusing bad and violent behavior under the guise of mental health is totally inappropriate,” said Cabello. “This idea puts officers at greater risk, dismisses the seriousness of mental health, and makes law enforcement’s job even tougher”
Cabello cited two different democrat proposals that would force police departments to establish gun storage programs and penalties for those who have their firearms stolen.
“This is what happens when Illinois politicians who have no law enforcement experience care more about protecting criminals than supporting police. I will continue to fight for law enforcement, fight for law and order, and fight to keep our communities safe.”
For further details or inquiries, please contact Representative Cabello at 815-621-2196.
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John M. Cabello is the Assistant Minority Leader and State Representative for Illinois’ 90th House District, which includes the following communities in Winnebago, Stephenson, and Boone counties: Rockford, Machesney Park, Freeport, Roscoe, Loves Park, Rockton, South Beloit, Caledonia, Durand, Rock City, and Rockton.