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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez recently joined Mayor Richard Daley and Governor Pat Quinn in Chicago where the Governor signed legislation drafted by the State’s Attorney’s Office that will increase criminal penalties for weapons offenses by street gang members. House Bill 4124, proposed and drafted by the Alvarez administration, was named in honor of slain Chicago Police Officer Alejandro Valadez, who was killed last June in a drive-by shooting involving gang members. The new law increases the penalties for street gang members who are caught carrying an illegal firearm. Individuals convicted under the new law would now be given a mandatory prison sentence instead of being eligible for probation. “The loss of Officer Valadez was a tragedy beyond words,” said Alvarez. “This new law will be a very important tool to help police and prosecutors in the battle against gang and gun violence in our communities.” The bill signing ceremony was attended by members of Valadez’s family, his former partner, and Mayor Richard M. Daley. It was held at the 7th District Police Station in Englewood where Valadez was assigned.
Cook County State's Attorney's Office:
Press Releases
Anita Alvarez
Cook County State's Attorney
Communications Department
Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 603-3423
saomedia@cookcountygov.com
December 7, 2009Legislation Drafted By State's Attorney's Office Cracking Down On Gang-Related Gun Violence Signed By Governor