Bischof Law offers new protection

Victims of violence don't choose between living and dying. Their offender or abuser has already decided that for them.

That, more than anything, defines what it means to be a crime victim.

The tragic story of Cindy Bischof is a perfect example.

The young lady fought everyday to save her life with an order of protection, moving her home, changing her appearance and installing security cameras in her home.

Her stalker decided that wasn't enough to stop him and tragically murdered Cindy on March 7 outside her office.

What did the Illinois' law do to protect Cindy? Nothing. The order of protection was violated and her abuser roamed freely until her untimely death.

Recently, the governor signed the Cindy Bischof Law that allows courts to place GPS tracking devices on offenders who violate an order of protection.

We who are also victims of violent crime in Illinois and in our communities want to commend Cindy Bischof's family for entrusting leaders in the legislature such as my State Rep. Elizabeth Coulson to make this lifesaving measure a statewide law.

For victims of violence who are reading this letter, please know help is out there.

Call the Illinois Domestic Violence Outline at 877-863-6338 and reach out for help now or visit the resources page at www.Illinoisvictims.org.

Jennifer Bishop-Jenkins

Northfield