IL SR0223

Chicago experienced over 500 homicides in 2012, with 87% being gun-related, while those prosecuted for firearms offenses received minimal or inconsistent punishment under Illinois law.

Federal weapons prosecutions declined from 11,015 in 2004 to 7,774 in recent years, with the Northern District of Illinois (Chicago) prosecuting only 40 federal gun crimes in 2012, down from 129 in 1999.

Federal law provides sentences up to 10 years for convicted felons in possession of firearms or ammunition, offering stronger penalties than state prosecution.

Urges the President, Attorney General, Mayor of Chicago, Chicago Police Superintendent, Cook County Sheriff, and Cook County State's Attorney to collaborate in referring all eligible firearms offenses to federal prosecution.

Asserts that increased federal prosecutions would keep violent and repeat offenders incarcerated longer, free local criminal justice resources, and effectively reduce community violence and gang-related crime.