Emanuel, Alvarez Want Stiffer Sentences For Gun Crimes

By Samantha Abernethy in News on Feb 11, 2013 11:30PM

Mayor introduces new statewide legislation that calls for stiffer sentences for gun crimes. (Photo By: Brooke Collins)

Mayor Rahm Emanuel, State's Attorney Anita Alvarez and Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy joined together to introduce a new proposal that would impose stiffer sentences for gun offenders.

The proposal would increase penalties for felons who carry guns, increase the minimum sentence for aggravated use of a weapon and add these gun crimes to the Truth in Sentences guidelines requiring offenders serve at least 85 percent of their sentence.

"Criminals continue to escape with minor sentences for possessing and using firearms, and these light penalties do not reflect the severity of their crimes nor the damage they cause our communities," said Emanuel.

Alvarez said until the legislation is passed, she has directed Assistant State's Attorneys to pursue the maximum possible sentence for all gun crimes.

"While we are committed to getting this legislation passed, we cannot wait for it to wind its way through the legislature," Alvarez said. "We must act now to get gun-toting gangbangers off our streets."

Earlier this month, Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart asked for legislation to help enforce laws, too. The measure would allow him to seize weapons from people when the department knows the individual's Firearm Owner's ID card has expired. Dart also announced Sunday that he is planning an Illinois-Indiana gun summit to take place in Gary later this week. Officials estimate about 20 percent of guns seized in Chicago are purchased in Indiana.