East Central Reporter

Pointing to what he sees as an assault on law enforcement, Republican state Sen. Darren Bailey has filed legislation calling for the reinstatement of the death penalty for anyone who commits first-degree murder against a police officer.

“Law enforcement is under attack, and I think we all know that, and it’s because here in Illinois, Springfield has failed them," Bailey said at a recent news conference. “We need leaders in Springfield who are willing to stand up and fight for them against a radical agenda that seems to prioritize criminals over cops and puts law enforcement communities and families at risk.”

Now seeking the GOP nomination for governor, Bailey is also touting Senate Bill 3899 as the first step to restoring respect to law enforcement.

“This legislation comes after a long line of law enforcement officers were murdered or critically wounded in the line of duty,” he added, “some by repeat violent offenders who are set free by woke prosecutors and judges who refuse to demand law and order and keep our communities safe. The men and women who put that uniform on are heroes and their service to our communities must be recognized, and they must be respected in the state of Illinois.”

Bailey laments the recent death of Bradley Police Sgt. Marlene Rittmanic, who was "coldly executed" while on duty. Even closer to home, he’s still also mourning the recent slaying of Wayne County Sheriff’s Deputy Sean Riley, who was shot and killed while answering a call to help a stranded motorist.

“The bill that I filed last week is for every police officer who has ever carried the weight of the badge,” Bailey said, “the men and the women who put their lives on the line to serve and protect our communities.”

In all, Bailey said the state has lost 25 officers in the line of duty over the last three years, including six over the last eight months, five of them to gunfire.  

“Far too often our criminal justice system is seen as a laughing stock to these offenders, especially here in Illinois,” he added. “We want to make it very clear that these actions will truly have consequences and that our law enforcement will not be abandoned. I want every member of our law enforcement community to know we are standing with you, and help is on the way.”

A 21-year law enforcement veteran, according to NBC 5 Chicago, Rittmanic is remembered as being all heart, taking part in a Shop with a Cop event just weeks before her death where she volunteered her time to help provide Christmas gifts to children in need. In 2020, she was honored as Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, and just after Christmas, Kankakee County Humane Foundation director Jordan Chapman said her organization received “a substantial donation for the care of our residents” from the officer and her wife.

“We’re beyond thankful for her and her wife’s donation, and I could never thank either of them enough for believing in the work that we do,” Chapman said.

Two people have been charged in connection with the shooting, which also critically injured a second officer. The Kankakee County State’s Attorney has requested that federal prosecutors pursue the death penalty for both, the station reported.

Filed on Jan. 21, Bailey’s bill has gained the support of fellow state Sen. Neil Anderson, who has signed on a co-sponsor. The measure has now been referred to the Senate Assignments Committee.