Illinois House Republicans called for changes to state criminal justice policies following the killing of a Chicago police officer and the critical injury of another, according to a May 5 statement. The suspect, Alphanso Talley, has been charged with murder, attempted murder, and several felony counts. At the time of the incident, Talley was wanted on three warrants and was on parole in two separate cases.
The case has led to renewed scrutiny of Illinois’ SAFE-T Act. Earlier this year, Governor JB Pritzker and Speaker Chris Welch described the act as sound policy. The release questioned how someone with Talley’s record could remain free and allegedly commit violent crimes.
A statement from House Republicans said: “I don’t think anything needs to change at all, the SAFE-T Act is working.” They argued that Democratic leaders owe “the people of Illinois answers and accountability for how a repeat offender like this was free to be on our streets and allegedly commit such a heinous and tragic crime.”
House Republicans said they have introduced more than 40 bills aimed at reforming the SAFE-T Act but claim those proposals have not advanced. They questioned: “How can Democrats continue to stand by a policy that keeps failing after tragedies like this? A Chicago police officer is dead and another remains in critical condition. What more will it take for Democrats to get serious about fixing the SAFE-T Act?”
The release concluded by stating that House Republicans mourned the fallen officer, wished for recovery of the wounded officer, and supported law enforcement personnel across Chicago.
Coffey is among those calling for these reforms; he was elected as a Republican representative in 2023 for Illinois’ 95th House District after Tim Butler left office, according to Ballotpedia.
