“I support Illinois HB-0038, which is legislation intended to intensify criminal charges against offenders who commit crimes towards people engaged in religious activities.

We continue to see mass violence directed toward innocent people peacefully practicing their religion.  We are all aware of the senseless tragedies in Sri Lanka last weekend, New Zealand last month, Pittsburg last year, Sutherland Springs, Texas, in 2017, and unfortunately the list goes on, and on.  People should have the freedom to pray in their religious sanctuaries without any fear of a violent attack.  

I, along with the men and women of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office denounce terrorism and we will do everything in our power to protect Lake County civilians of all faiths, traditions, and religions.

The people of Lake County elected me to keep them safe, and as your Sheriff, I will always support legislation which has the goal of protecting our community.  I applaud our legislators for taking a strong stance against terrorism.  HB-0038 is good legislation focused on keeping the community safe, while holding cowardly violent criminals accountable.”