Politics & Government

Sente Backs Legislation to Require Sex Offenders to Submit DNA Samples

Bill will next be considered by the Illinois Senate.

State Rep. Carol Sente (D-59th) voted for legislation in April that would require sex offenders  and other serious criminals to submit their DNA samples to the Illinois  State Police. This law will support law enforcement efforts to better  protect our communities and vest them with more resources to easily  catch repeat offenders.

“DNA  evidence has now become a standard tool in criminal investigations due  to technological advancement,” Sente said in a statement. “It is important that the  state makes laws that are reflective of this tool in criminal  investigations, by expanding the number of criminals who must submit  DNA, law enforcement officers can also eliminate potential suspects  during the investigation.”

Under House Bill 3238, all sex offenders who currently  have to register with local authorities would now also submit DNA  samples to the state police. Additionally, any person arrested and  indicted for offenses including first degree murder, home invasion,  predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, aggravated criminal sexual  assault or criminal sexual assault must submit DNA samples within 14  days of indictment.

Find out what's happening in Lake Forest-Lake Bluffwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The  measure was fully supported by the Illinois Attorney General, the  Illinois State’s Attorneys Association, the Illinois Association of  Chiefs of Police, and the Illinois Bar Association. It was  overwhelmingly approved by the Illinois House of Representatives last month and now moves to the Illinois Senate for consideration.

“By having the DNA of  criminals documented and on file, law enforcement can easily make a  match to any evidence criminals leave behind,” Sente said. Improving the  safety of our communities has been a top priority of mine, I am  committed to continue to help support law enforcement efforts to combat  crime, and bring justice to victims and their families.”

Find out what's happening in Lake Forest-Lake Bluffwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The 59th District contains portions of 22 communities in Central Lake and Northern Cook Counties, including Lake Forest, Lake Bluff and Knollwood.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here