Sangamon Sun

State Representative Jeff Keicher joined state officials and law enforcement personnel to honor Illinois police officers who died in duty over the past year. The Illinois Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony highlighted the dedication and courage of officers and served as a reminder of the impact of public policy on their safety.

Democratic State Comptroller Susana Mendoza expressed concerns about current policies: “When we give more rights to the criminals than we do to our police officers, we end up with dead officers and increased crime in our communities. That’ll mean more buttons on that plate."

Mendoza highlighted flaws in the SAFE-T Act, allowing release on electronic monitoring for those accused of serious crimes. “Chicago Police Officer Enrique Martinez would be with us right now, and not on a button or on the memorial wall if the monster that murdered him was locked up instead of out committing crimes while on an electronic monitor,” she said.

Rep. Keicher acknowledged Comptroller Mendoza’s remarks, urging a review of the SAFE-T Act to ensure officer safety. The ceremony emphasized the need to remember fallen officers and appreciate current law enforcement’s efforts.

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