South Cook News

Illinois Senate Republican Leader John Curran has introduced a bill aimed at enhancing community safety by mandating that individuals convicted of forcing victims into commercial sex work register as sex offenders. Senate Bill 267 seeks to amend the Sex Offender Registration Act, requiring those found guilty of involuntary servitude or trafficking minors or adults for sexual activity to be listed on the Illinois Sex Offender Registry.

Curran highlighted that this change is necessary because currently, even those convicted of such crimes are not required to register as sex offenders. "Allowing these predators to walk free without registering once their sentence is served does not provide appropriate justice for victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation," he stated. The proposed legislation would ensure these offenders register in person annually for ten years and report any changes within three days.

DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin supports the bill, noting its importance in tracking offenders and informing communities about potential dangers. "Someone who is convicted of involuntary servitude or trafficking in persons is profiting from forcing victims into the sex trade," Berlin said. He emphasized that registration would help law enforcement monitor these individuals and deter further offenses.

The Illinois State Police have identified human trafficking as a significantly under-reported crime, with many victims unable to seek help. Requiring traffickers to register aims to increase accountability for these crimes.

Senate Bill 267 has been assigned to the Senate Criminal Law Committee for further consideration.

A video featuring Leader Curran and States Attorney Berlin discussing the legislation can be accessed online.