Rep. John M. Cabello: “Illinois Leaders Need To De-Escalate and Allow Law Enforcement To Do Their Jobs”

ROCKFORD, IL - State Representative John M. Cabello (R-Machesney Park), a retired Rockford Police Detective with decades of experience in law enforcement, is calling for de-escalation, calm, and common sense amid growing tensions outside federal immigration facilities in Illinois.

In a statement today, Rep. Cabello addressed the escalating chaos as protesters, counter-protesters, federal immigration agents and local law enforcement officers clashed near an ICE processing center in Broadview. Initial reports from on the ground indicate that local law enforcement officers were allegedly ordered to stand down when federal agents called for backup.

"My first priority in law enforcement was always to de-escalate a scene and keep people safe," said Rep. Cabello. "The antics from this Governor and the Chicago Mayor - like ordering local police to ignore federal officers in distress - are beyond reckless. They're dangerous, an abdication of duty, and a complete betrayal of the badge."

Rep Cabello continued: "If true, these reports are beyond disturbing. No badge should ever be ordered to turn their back on another officer in need-federal, state, or local."

Cabello issued a direct call to de-escalate for Republicans, ICE supporters, and others drawn to the detention center and protests: "I'm asking those who support ICE and the rule of law to stay home and let the professionals do their jobs. We do not need more conflict. This is not a game and the Governor and Mayor are looking for any excuse to shift the blame."

"It's very simple: ICE is not going after innocent people. They are removing violent criminals and repeat offenders who have no legal right to be on our streets. All leaders-regardless of party-should be working to calm this situation, not actively trying to inflame it."

Cabello closed with a sharp challenge to Governor Pritzker: "Governor Pritzker has turned our state into a sanctuary for criminals, not citizens. Maybe instead of running his mouth on national TV or attacking the President or other governors, he could explain why his administration is ordering police to stand down from enforcing the law and preventing them from keeping people safe."

For further details or inquiries, please contact Representative Cabello at 815-621-2196.

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John M. Cabello is the Assistant Minority Leader and State Representative for Illinois' 90th House District, which includes the following communities in Winnebago, Stephenson, and Boone counties: Rockford, Machesney Park, Freeport, Roscoe, Loves Park, Rockton, South Beloit, Caledonia, Durand, Rock City, and Rockton.