Illinois State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr.

Sims: Highly disappointed by Van Dyke sentencing, fight continues for justice

Details: Category: Press Releases; Sunday, January 20, 2019 08:07 AM

CHICAGO – Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement after Chicago Police Officer Jason Van Dyke received a sentence Friday of a little less than 7 years for second degree murder in the shooting death of Laquan McDonald:

“This sentencing was disappointing because it provides further support that even in light of overwhelming evidence to the contrary, bad police actors will not be held responsible for their illegal acts. The length of this sentence serves to re-victimize the McDonald family and adds to the overwhelming pain they and many across our communities have already endured.

“What we saw Friday, coupled with the acquittal of the three officers charged with covering up Van Dyke’s actions Thursday, are unacceptable abuses of our justice system and further strains an already strained relationship between law enforcement, the justice system and a community that has been under-resourced, disinvested in and devalued for far too long.

“However, we must not let this sentencing discourage us from continuing the fight for justice. I remain unwavering in my commitment to work with my constituents, local leaders and those in the justice system to improve our criminal justice system so that it works for everyone.”

Sims: Veterans deserve answers and transparency

Details: Category: Press Releases; Friday, January 18, 2019 03:56 PM

Sims JB

CHICAGO—State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement after Gov. JB Pritzker signed an executive order for a full audit of the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs’ (IDVA), health, safety and security procedures in response to one of the residents at the Manteno Veterans’ Home testing positive for Legionnaires’ Disease:

“We have to do all we can to prevent a repeat of what happened in Quincy at the Manteno Veterans’ Home. These men and women have sacrificed so much for the people of this great state and country.

“For that reason, I commend Gov. Pritzker. His swift action is exactly what we need—a fresh start. The lack of transparency in how the last administration handled the Legionnaires’ outbreak in Quincy was despicable. I join the governor in his commitment to treat this situation with the urgency it demands. I just sent a letter to the director of the Manteno Veterans’ Home this week requesting detailed information on how the case of Legionnaires’ disease is being handled and what protocol is being taken.

“We have an obligation to protect our heroes as they have protected us, and this means collecting as much information as possible so we can be transparent with them, their families and the public and take all necessary precautions to protect them from any harm, particularly Legionnaires’ disease.”

Sims sworn in during 101st General Assembly inauguration

Details: Category: Press Releases; Wednesday, January 09, 2019 04:05 PM

Sims Swearing In

SPRINGFIELD—State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago) was sworn into office on Wednesday as the Illinois Senate officially began the 101^st General Assembly.

“I am eager to continue working hard for the great people of the 17^th District,” Sims said. “This session I plan to work with my colleagues to address the impact of the budget impasse, grow economic opportunities, provide a quality education to all students, work on criminal justice reform, help prevent gun violence and pass a full, balanced budget. Illinoisans deserve progress, and I stand ready to give it to them.”