West Cook News

Cook County officials have responded to recent statements and actions by the Trump administration regarding crime, safety, and pretrial reform in Chicago and other municipalities. The administration’s announcement included plans to increase the presence of federal troops in Washington, D.C., criticism of pretrial reform measures such as the elimination of cash bail, and comments on crime trends.

Local leaders challenged these claims, stating: "The claims and strategies announced are ineffective and based on lies, not facts. In reality, Chicago and Cook County have emerged as leaders in implementing thoughtful and effective criminal justice policies that keep people safe and strengthen our communities."

Over the past three years, Cook County has invested significantly in community safety programs and evidence-based violence intervention efforts. Officials report these investments have resulted in historic decreases in gun violence and other crimes. "In Cook County, we have seen a 35% drop in gun homicides from this time last year and a 45% drop in gun homicides from 2021. We are proud of this progress and are committed to studying the impact and sustaining the life-saving work taking place at the community level," county representatives said.

Illinois became the first state nearly two years ago to end money bail with the Pretrial Fairness Act. Since then, Cook County leaders assert that their pretrial system has shown positive results. "Rates of crime have stabilized or decreased and now, the serious decision of whether someone is held in jail while awaiting trial is based solely on safety and the facts of the case, not access to wealth," they stated. They emphasized their commitment to using evidence-based solutions that both protect public safety and uphold constitutional rights.

Officials also addressed rhetoric coming from federal leaders: "Policies need to be grounded in fact and solve actual problems. It is also critical that the leaders of our country respect the dignity and rights of all people they represent. The dehumanizing rhetoric used by the Trump administration is dangerous and divisive." The statement concluded with a call for unity around shared values: "In Cook County, we share a commitment to working together to address our shared challenges and upholding the American values of dignity, respect and equal justice for all."