I’ve spent nearly two decades in uniform. I’ve seen what happens when the system works, and I’ve seen what happens when it doesn’t.
This week, we lost Chicago Police Officer John Bartholomew, just 38 years old. Another officer, a 57-year-old veteran with over two decades of service, is still fighting for his life. Two families changed forever. Two officers who showed up to serve, and paid a price no one should ever have to pay.
This didn’t come out of nowhere. The individual responsible had a history. Serious charges, including aggravated battery of a peace officer. Opportunities to intervene. Chances to stop the cycle before it reached this point. Instead, he was released, placed on electronic monitoring, and given freedom he ultimately abused. Court dates were missed. Conditions were violated. He was declared an absconder. But still, he remained on the street.
As both a legislator and a police officer, I can’t ignore that reality. When patterns like this are allowed to continue, the consequences are real, and they’re final.
I’ve been laser focused on public safety since the day I was sworn into the General Assembly because I’ve lived it. I’ve responded to the calls. I’ve seen the faces behind the reports. I know that when accountability breaks down, it can shatter lives.
There were moments in this case where the system had a chance to step in. Moments where stronger action could have changed the outcome. Those moments passed, and now a family is grieving, and another is holding onto hope in a hospital room.
We can have conversations about reform. We can debate policy. Those discussions matter, but there has to be a line where public safety comes first, where repeat violent offenders are treated with the level of urgency their actions demand. I’m going to keep pushing for that.
Because one life lost is too many, and we shouldn’t have to ask how many tragedies it takes before something is done.
Watch my Fox32 interview below.
Meeting with Mokena Mayor and Will County Board Member
Good conversations lead to strong communities.
I recently met with Mokena Mayor George Metanias and Will County Board Member Jim Richmond to talk through some upcoming opportunities, including a potential shred event, other future local events, and ways we can continue serving residents well.
These kinds of meetings are important. When local leaders come together, ideas move forward, problems get addressed, and our communities are better for it.
Looking forward to building on these conversations and continuing the work!
Meeting with Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police
| I was pleased to listen to concerns from the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. We had a constructive conversation about HB5011, my bill to eliminate police ticket quotas. This bill has unanimously passed in the House! I’m grateful to have their input and perspective. Conversations will continue with the Senate sponsor and all stakeholders as HB5011 moves through the legislative process! |
Bill Riordan Retirement
I was grateful to attend the retirement celebration for Lockport Township Park District Executive Director Bill Riordan. His leadership has left a lasting mark on our community, creating spaces where families gather, kids grow, and memories are made over his 22 years of service. I was proud to offer House Resolution 731 honoring his commitment to serving our community!
Thank you, Bill, for your dedication and commitment, and wishing you all the best in this next chapter.
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