New law targets gang recruitment

With growing concerns about gang-related crimes in our neighborhoods, I wanted to take this time to highlight a particularly important piece of legislation that came out of Springfield this past session. SB 141, which passed both houses unanimously, makes the gang recruitment of a minor a Class 1 felony within the state of Illinois.

As a co-sponsor, I believe that this new law deserves attention as just one of the many steps being taken to address the threat of gangs within our neighborhoods.

By going after gangs and their ability to coerce new members into their ranks, we cannot only combat the further spread of violence but also protect young children that are easy and convenient targets for gangs.

Fred Crespo

State Representative 44th District

Hoffman Estates