Why Are Chicago Violent Crimes at a 5-Year High?

 Posted on September 20, 2024 in Violent Crimes

Despite city-wide efforts and millions of dollars spent by the city of Chicago to reduce crime and violence, recent data shows violent crime cases are at a five-year high. Violent crimes overall appear to have jumped by about 7.2 percent. Robberies are at the top of the list in the increase in violent crimes. On the other hand, homicide rates in the city (which saw a decline in the city in 2022 and fell again in 2023), are currently lower at this point in 2024 as compared to 2023. State Rep. John Cabello asserts rising violent crimes in Chicago are due to the SAFE-T Act.

The SAFE-T Act, which was introduced in 2021, was upheld in 2023 by the Illinois Supreme Court as constitutional. The Act makes Illinois the first state in the U.S. to entirely eliminate cash bail. Judges are no longer allowed to order an individual charged with a crime to pay money as a condition of their pretrial release. However, there are still guardrails in place that allow the State’s Attorney to file a petition to deny pretrial release based on flight risk or the risk to public safety.

Those charged with a violent crime in IL should take the charges very seriously. Speaking to an experienced Naperville, IL violent crime attorney from Appelman Law LLC can ensure you receive a strong defense and protection of your rights.

What Are the Crimes That Fall Under "Violent Crimes"?

According to the FBI, violent crimes are comprised of four offenses:

• Murder and manslaughter

• Forcible rape

• Robbery

• Aggravated assault

These four crimes are followed by property crimes like burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft. While arson is also considered a property crime, it is usually only reported as a violent crime when it occurs in conjunction with another violent or property crime.

What Should You Do If Charged with a Violent Crime?

If you are charged with a violent crime, you must be respectful and cooperative with law enforcement while still exercising your right to remain silent and your right to legal counsel. If you are wrongly arrested – or even if you committed the offense – never try to explain yourself to the police. Anything you say can be taken out of context and used to convict you.

Other than giving your name and address to the police, politely say that you will not answer any more questions until your attorney arrives. If they continue asking you questions, repeat your answer as many times as necessary. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible so you can avoid making any inadvertent mistakes that will harm your defense.

What Are Some General Defenses to Violent Crimes?

Your specific defense will depend on the crime you are accused of committing, as well as the facts and circumstances surrounding your arrest. If there was no probable cause for your arrest, your attorney may be able to have any evidence resulting from an improper arrest thrown out. Other potential defenses include:

• You are innocent of the charges.

• You were acting in self-defense or defense of others.

• You were wrongly identified.

• Your Constitutional rights were violated.

• You have a solid alibi.

• You lacked the necessary element of intent to commit the crime.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Violent Crimes Lawyer

Since the penalties for violent crimes in the state can be severe – and collateral consequences can follow you for many years – it is essential that you speak to an experienced Naperville, IL violent crimes attorney. Attorney Bret A. Appelman has a master’s degree in forensic psychology and a solid history of successfully defending his clients. Contact Appelman Law LLC at 630-717-7801 to schedule your free consultation and discuss your issue.