Metro East Sun

Illinois’ sanctuary state policies have come under criticism from some officials who argue that these measures have left families vulnerable and allowed violent offenders to remain free. Critics say that recent incidents involving individuals in the country illegally highlight the dangers of such policies.

Among the cases cited are those of Katie Abraham and Chloe Polzin, who were killed in a hit-and-run crash in January 2025 by Julio Cucul-Bol, an undocumented immigrant who allegedly tried to flee to Mexico after the incident. Another case involved Megan Bos, whose body was found buried in the yard of Luis Mendoza-Gonzalez, a Mexican national charged with her murder. Despite being charged, Mendoza-Gonzalez was granted pre-trial release before Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) intervened.

Law enforcement efforts such as Operation Midway Blitz have resulted in arrests of several individuals described as dangerous illegal aliens. Those arrested include Marcelino Ramos Crus, detained for DUI and vehicular burglary; Bernardino Perez-Arrevillaga, a registered sex offender convicted of aggravated sexual assault; and Juan Armenta, arrested for armed robbery and DUI.

Governor JB Pritzker’s statements over the past year have also drawn attention. In March 2025 he said: “What we really need is to become street fighters.” The following month he added: “Never before in my life have I called for mass protests, for mobilization, for disruption — but I am now.” In September 2025 Mayor Brandon Johnson referred to law enforcement as a “sickness.”

Tensions escalated at ICE’s Broadview facility where anti-ICE demonstrators reportedly issued threats. According to reports from law enforcement, two firearms and an explosive device were recovered during one incident after protestors called to “shoot ICE.”

The statement concludes: “The people of Illinois deserve better than leaders who side with criminals over communities. Every family should feel safe knowing the law will be enforced and violent offenders will be held accountable. It’s time to end the reckless sanctuary policies that are endangering our neighborhoods and stand with law enforcement in their mission to protect innocent lives. If Governor Pritzker and Mayor Johnson won’t take that responsibility seriously, then the federal government must step up and help.”

Schmidt, a Republican elected in 2023 to represent Illinois’ 114th House District after replacing LaToya Greenwood, has been among those voicing concern about these issues.