SPRINGFIELD — Aiming to tackle Illinois’ low homicide clearance rates, a new measure from State Senator Robert Peters demands greater transparency and accountability in law enforcement’s handling of violent crimes, enhancing public oversight and ultimately improving the state’s efforts to solve these critical cases. 

“Senate Bill 1587 will give the public a real-time look at how law enforcement is handling violent crime, helping us allocate resources where they are most needed and ensuring investigations are more efficient and effective,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This is about transparency and ensuring the system is working as it should.”

Under the measure, the Illinois State Police would provide quarterly reports to the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority offering detailed data on homicides and aggravated assaults involving firearms. These reports would track key metrics such as arrest numbers, cases referred for prosecution and the reasons why cases remain unsolved, providing a clearer understanding of the challenges faced by law enforcement.

Making this data publicly available would assist policymakers in allocating resources more effectively, whether for enhanced training for law enforcement or targeted funding for investigations. Additionally, allowing the public to track the progress of criminal investigations promotes greater public oversight and helps restore trust between communities and police.

“With its focus on transparency, accountability and efficiency in solving crimes, this initiative represents a critical step forward in improving the criminal justice system and ensuring communities across our state are safe,” said Peters.

Senate Bill 1587 passed the Senate Criminal Law Committee Tuesday and heads to the full Senate for further consideration.