Quincy Reporter

In Grundy County, Illinois, a recent case involving the release of a suspect in a fentanyl bust has prompted calls for changes to the SAFE-T Act. Two Honduran nationals were arrested with 3 kilograms of fentanyl, enough to potentially kill 1.5 million people. However, one suspect was released within 48 hours due to a lack of accessible criminal history information during the pre-trial release hearing.

The SAFE-T Act mandates such hearings occur within 48 hours of arrest. The Grundy County State’s Attorney aimed to detain both suspects given the severity of the charges, but only one was held due to an Immigration Detainer Warrant. California authorities later informed that the released individual had a juvenile criminal record, which could have influenced detention decisions if known earlier.

This incident has highlighted perceived flaws in the SAFE-T Act's time constraints on gathering evidence for pre-trial decisions. Lawmakers are now advocating for amendments, including making Class X felony fentanyl charges detainable by default and shifting proof burden onto defendants for pre-trial release eligibility.

State Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) emphasized the need for reform: "Law enforcement needs time and authority to make informed decisions for community safety." Legislative reforms aim to equip authorities better against threats like fentanyl.

Meanwhile, the Illinois General Assembly's Fall Veto Session is set from November 12-14 and November 19-21. Although no vetoes are on this year's agenda, lawmakers may revisit unresolved legislative items requiring a three-fifths majority vote in both chambers for immediate effect.

In other news, Illinois' Secretary of State launched "One Road. One Focus," a campaign addressing distracted driving risks among teens with mandatory educational videos during their learner’s permit phase. The initiative includes "Distracted Driver Corridors" with signage reminding drivers about increased crash risks.

Additionally, IDFPR introduced CORE—a new online licensing system starting with clinical psychologists, nail technicians, and music therapists—to streamline professional licensing processes over two years.

Lastly, IDNR encourages hunters to utilize free chronic wasting disease testing available across Illinois as deer season begins. CWD affects deer populations in northern counties; early detection is crucial according to health organizations' guidelines against consuming CWD-positive meat.