Sheriff Petitgout Responds to Governor’s Comments on SAFE-T Act Revisions
Governor JB Pritzker recently shared that he is open to considering improvements to the SAFE-T Act. I appreciate his willingness to reexamine the law, and I welcome an honest conversation about what is—and isn’t—working for public safety in Illinois.
Law enforcement across the state has raised consistent concerns about provisions that limit our ability to keep violent and repeat offenders in custody. We all want fairness in the justice system, but fairness cannot come at the expense of the safety of our communities. When individuals are accused of the most violent crimes are released after a single hearing, victims lose confidence and families feel less safe. That must change.
As Sheriff of McDonough County, my priority is straightforward: Protect the people who live, work, and raise their families here. Any revisions to state law must restore judicial discretion, strengthen accountability, and ensure that the rights of victims remain the priority.
I encourage the Governor and our legislators to work directly with frontline law enforcement as they consider next steps. We see the impact of these policies every day, and our experience is essential to crafting solutions that make Illinois safer.
Now is the moment for state leaders to take meaningful action. McDonough County stands ready to support reforms that enhance public safety, uphold victims’ rights, and provide clear tools for law enforcement to do the job responsibly. Our residents deserve nothing less.
Nick Petitgout McDonough County Sheriff
