DeLuca to Host Press Conference Jan. 24, Submits Proposal to Hold Repeat Gun Offenders Accountable

CHICAGO HEIGHTS, Ill. – Concerned that too many criminals are endangering communities with repeat gun offenses, state Rep. Anthony DeLuca, D-Chicago Heights, has put forth a plan to reimplement expanded sentences for repeat gun offenders, as well as require juvenile repeat firearm offenders to participate in social service programs.

DeLuca will discuss the legislation with local police officials, community leaders, clergy and crime survivors at a press conference scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 24 at 10 a.m. at Prairie State College, located at 202 S. Halsted St. in Chicago Heights.

“Too many offenders are acting brazenly, carelessly putting lives at risk,” DeLuca said. “If we want to improve safety in our neighborhood and tackle the issue of gun crime effectively, we must have strong consequences in place. Particularly for younger individuals, we need to help them pursue a better path forward.”

DeLuca’s House Bill House Bill 4453 would reinstitute sentencing standards for repeat gun offenders that expired at the start of the year. If passed, those convicted of multiple firearm offenses would face longer sentences, depending on circumstances.

For juvenile repeat firearm offenders that did not cause injury (House Bill 990), DeLuca’s measure would require them to participate in social service programs for no less than three months. If the minor’s actions cause serious injury, while committed to the Department of Juvenile Justice they would be provided mental health services, education, drug treatment and mentoring.

“I’m committed to addressing public safety comprehensively,” DeLuca said. “This isn’t a static issue, which is why I continue to regularly engage our local law enforcement and community leaders to listen to their recommendations. Let’s take real action to make our communities safer.”

For more information, please contact RepDeLuca@SBCGlobal.net.

Who: State Rep. Anthony DeLuca, local police officials, community leaders, clergy, crime survivors

What: Press conference on plan to reinstitute higher minimum sentences for repeat gun offenders

When: Wednesday, Jan. 24; 10 a.m.

Where: Prairie State College; 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights (use parking lot off of Coolidge St.)

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