Will County Gazette

Patrick Sheehan, a state representative from Illinois, has expressed concerns that rhetoric from state and city leaders regarding law enforcement and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) undermines public safety. He said on the social media platform X that such rhetoric puts officers and communities at risk.

"Gov. Pritzker has threatened legal action against ICE for doing its job," said Patrick T Sheehan. "Time and again, Governor Pritzker and Mayor Johnson have made disgusting and dangerous statements about our police. This rhetoric puts a target on law enforcement officers backs, emboldens criminals, and puts communities at risk. Our officers deserve our respect and support, but instead they are being attacked and demonized for serving us."

Illinois leaders have recently been in conflict over the role of law enforcement in federal immigration crackdowns. Governor J.B. Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson have opposed cooperation with ICE operations amid national political tension. According to the Associated Press, Johnson signed an order preventing the Chicago Police Department (CPD) from assisting federal immigration arrests. Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) disputed Pritzker’s claim that Illinois was being "targeted" by federal enforcement efforts. These exchanges underscore Illinois' commitment to maintaining its sanctuary policies against federal pressure.

According to WTTW, data from the Chicago Police Department indicates that officers pointed their guns at individuals 4,209 times in 2024—a 44% increase from 2022—highlighting higher-risk encounters and strain on public safety. The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office reports 3,821 aggravated battery prosecutions involving police officers over eight years, with an 85% conviction rate. These statistics suggest ongoing threats against law enforcement despite overall declines in crime.

Federal crime data show that Illinois follows regional trends of decreasing violent crime since 2021, although aggravated assaults remain high. The FBI's 2024 report indicates U.S. violent crime fell by 4.5%, while the Council of State Governments notes reductions in Illinois’ homicide, rape, and robbery rates below 2019 levels. Compared to neighboring states like Indiana and Wisconsin, Illinois' recovery aligns with broader Midwest crime stabilization.

Sheehan, a Republican representing Illinois’ 37th District since April 2024, has nearly two decades of experience in law enforcement and has served as a Lockport alderman and park commissioner. According to the Illinois General Assembly, he is a member of several committees including Judiciary-Criminal, Police & Fire, Ethics & Elections, Gaming, Housing, and Juvenile Justice Committees. His background informs his legislative focus on public safety and support for first responders.