Kankakee Times

District 79 House of Representatives candidate Bobb Switzer has expressed concerns about Illinois' criminal justice policies, particularly the "No bail" SAFE T Act. Switzer believes that this policy has failed and allows criminals to go free. He also highlighted issues related to policing in the state, particularly in light of an immigrant influx.

Switzer's concerns come after the recent charges against two Venezuelan migrants, Abel Barrios-Estava and Rafael Mata-Torres, in DuPage County. The individuals were accused of burglary and retail theft in Illinois, despite the implementation of the SAFE-T Act, which eliminated bail for certain offenses.

“Because of the failed policies of the Democratic agenda Illinois residents face new threats in 2023,” Switzer said on Facebook.

“Number one: No accountability for crimes with HB3653 the “No bail” SAFE T Act which gives criminals a free pass.”

“Number two: The immigrant invasion that we cannot handle with the Police resources we already have. It’s the victims that will have to suffer meanwhile organized gangs of looters are robbing small business owners and are being given a free pass.”

“These two individuals were released with no bail and a pat in the back to commit more crimes. It’s time we fight back with both stricter State and Federal penalties to find these criminals accountable for their crimes.”

Two Venezuelan migrants, Abel Barrios-Estava and Rafael Mata-Torres, were charged with burglary and retail theft after allegedly stealing over $1,700 worth of merchandise from an Oak Brook Macy’s store in Illinois. The incident occurred on Oct. 23, and both individuals appeared in court, where they were charged with Class 2 Felony Burglary and Class 3 Felony Retail Theft; they are scheduled for arraignment in November, will wear electronic monitoring devices, and are prohibited from entering any Macy’s store. (Source)

The SAFE-T Act, which went into effect on Sept.18, disallows bail for certain offenses. This means that criminals can be released back onto the streets rather than being detained before trial. (Source)

The 79th district is currently represented by State Rep. Jackie Haas (R-Kankakee). It is located mostly in the Chicago area and includes all or parts of Aroma Park, Beecher, Bonfield, Bourbonnais, Braceville, Bradley, Buckingham, Cabery, Chebanse, Coal City, Diamond, East Brooklyn, Essex, Gardner, Godley, Herscher, Hopkins Park, Irwin, Kankakee, Limestone, Momence, Peotone, Reddick, Sammons Point, South Wilmington, St. Anne, Sun River Terrace, and Union Hill.