Collinsville outlaws saggy pants

COLLINSVILLE — Retailers who sell belts in Collinsville may want to stock up.

The City Council in the southwestern Illinois community voted 3-2 on Monday to ban saggy pants.

The Belleville News-Democrat reports the ordinance forbids pants that ride lower than 3 to 4 inches below the waistline of the underwear. A first offense is punishable with a $100 fine, while a second offense would carry a $300 fine plus 40 hours of community service.

The ordinance was passed over the objections of City Manager Bob Knabel, who argued that enforcing it would sidetrack police officers from more important issues.

But Councilman Mike Tognarelli says he trusts officers to use good judgment. He contends saggy pants are a symbol of gang activity and Collinsville residents don't need to put up with it.