Police reform law is disservice to public

Recently, Gov. Pritzger signed into law HB 3653, better known in civilized environs as the "Anti-Police Bill." This bill presented at 3 a.m. weeks and weeks ago in the House (with little or no input from the professional law enforcement community) is a dagger to the hearts of the professional men and women who enforce the laws and ordinances of our communities.

Yes, there was a need for reform, for more transparency within agencies related to disciplinary activities, but this law, that I pray will have a trailer law that will temper some of the harsh and barbaric requirements that have been placed on line-level officers and their administrations.

When officers leave Illinois to more hospitable climates and criminals have free reign to plunder and pillage, who will we have to thank? This overreaction on the part of those responsible for such poor legislation should be proud. What will be next, the elimination of police agencies altogether?

I guess we could hire unarmed, untrained and uncaring citizens to answer future "armed robbery in progress" calls. Today, the people of Illinois were done a great disservice.

Gary Kupsak, Retired Chief

Vernon Hills Police