SPRINGFIELD – To address the increase in crime across Illinois, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Swansea) supported a measure that passed the Senate that would create a pilot program for the East St. Louis Police Department to provide essential resources and assistance to victims.

“Crime is a real issue across Illinois,” Belt said. “No matter the crime, every victim deserves the respect and support after a trauma.” 

House Bill 4736, a measure Belt is co-sponsoring, would create the Co-Responder Pilot Program in the East St. Louis Police Department in the 57^th Senate District. The unit’s primary focus would be providing crisis intervention, case management, advocacy and ongoing emotional support to victims of all crimes, particularly to victims of crimes that cause a high level of trauma.

“Adding a pilot program in East St. Louis would give Metro East crime victims the resources they need after a traumatic event,” Belt said. “This program would improve the lives of victims who often are left feeling alone.”

The Co-Responder Pilot Program would also be implemented in the Peoria, Springfield and Waukegan Police Departments.

House Bill 4736 passed the Senate.