Sangamon Sun

Senate Republican Leader John Curran and Senate Republican Caucus Whip Jil Tracy have filed a resolution seeking an independent audit by the Illinois Auditor General. The resolution addresses allegations of violence against children at Aunt Martha’s Integrated Care Center in Chicago, as well as purported attempts by the Pritzker Administration to falsify investigation documents.

"Gov. Pritzker’s administration’s failure to protect abused youth in the state’s care from physical and sexual abuse and their attempts to thwart inquiries into the abuse is extremely alarming," stated Curran. He emphasized the need for accountability and transparency, noting that the audit aims to provide answers for child victims, their families, and Illinois residents.

A report by Injustice Watch has detailed numerous accusations of violence, including serious allegations of sexual and physical abuse at the state-funded center. In 2019, Marc Smith, a former executive at Aunt Martha's, was appointed Director of DCFS by Governor Pritzker despite potential conflicts of interest. Concerns were raised about A-Alert Security Company, which received a no-bid contract signed by Smith amid allegations of inappropriate conduct.

Despite these concerns, A-Alert continued its services with significant taxpayer funding. This spring saw arrests related to aggravated sexual assault charges against employees of A-Alert Security. "These are just two examples of the horrific crimes that have been reported at this state-funded center that was supposed to be protecting child victims of abuse," said Tracy.

The facility was shut down in June following an accusation against a DCFS staffer attempting to backdate protection plans during an investigation. A DCFS spokesperson acknowledged this attempt as panic-driven.

"The Governor’s Office has refused to even comment on the horrific findings," added Curran. The filed Senate Resolution 1229 calls for an audit outside the executive branch focusing on various aspects including abuse investigations and financial oversight related to Aunt Martha's and A-Alert Security Services Inc.

In other news, Illinois Senate Republicans are requesting state-specific data concerning non-citizens with criminal convictions or pending charges after federal data showed over half a million such individuals nationwide. Senator Bennett expressed concern over potential threats posed by immigrant criminals within Illinois.

Senator Bennett also encourages constituents to honor veterans by submitting photos and stories for display at the Illinois Capitol from November 11 to 25 in recognition of Veterans Day.

Additionally, Illinois’ fall trout season will commence on October 19 across designated locations statewide. Anglers must possess valid licenses and trout stamps for participation.

As per current records, Illinois owes nearly $1.5 billion to state vendors with numerous pending vouchers.