On Monday, Senator Patricia Van Pelt’s plan to help victims and witnesses of gang crime was signed into law by the governor.
The legislation, House Bill 1139, establishes the Gang Crime Witness Protection Program Fund, which will assist victims and witnesses who are actively aiding in the prosecution of gang members. Funds may be used to help pay temporary living costs, moving expenses, rent and other expenses of relocation.
"This legislation will empower people who might be afraid to testify against members of organized crime regimes,” Van Pelt said. “If witnesses are willing to tell the authorities everything they know about criminal activity, they can help stop the violence that is rampant in our communities.”
Gang activity is a major cause of crime in Chicago and specifically in Van Pelt’s 5th District. Gang activity in Chicago rose by 25 percent from 2009 to 2012. In 2012, there were 506 murders; this total is up from 435 in 2011. Gang members were responsible for 61 percent of all homicides in 2011.
Sen. Van Pelt joined Gov. Pat Quinn, Rep. Chris Welch (D-Westchester) and U.S. Rep. Danny Davis (D-Chicago) for the signing ceremony at the Rev. B.T. Little Community Center.