IL HB4738

Amends Section 5-5-3.2 of the Unified Code of Corrections to add factor (27) as an aggravating factor in sentencing: crimes of first degree murder, assault, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, robbery, armed robbery, or aggravated robbery committed against a veteran performing duties as a representative of a veterans' organization, when the defendant knew or reasonably should have known the victim was a veteran.

Defines "veteran" as an Illinois resident who has served in the United States Armed Forces, Illinois National Guard, or United States Reserve Forces.

Defines "veterans' organization" as an organization substantially comprised of veterans or spouses/widows/widowers of veterans, with the primary purpose of promoting member welfare and providing public assistance.

This factor allows courts to impose more severe sentences when crimes are committed against veterans engaged in veterans' organization work.