3 suburbs float carjacking referendums, but they're advisory only

Prison bars Photo credit Getty Images

By Nancy Harty

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — As voters head to the polls, residents of three Cook County suburbs are being asked to weigh in on tougher criminal penalties.

“Shall the minimum criminal penalty for vehicular carjacking be increased from four years to ten years?”

That’s the question leaders in Broadview, Melrose Park and Cicero are asking voters.

The president of the Civic Federation, Laurence Msall, says the power of the advisory referendum is limited to influencing lawmakers. He said the crime of carjacking can already carry a sentence of up to 15 years if a gun is used, or if there are other aggravating factors.

He said it’s disingenuous to make people think an advisory referendum will change the penalty without action from the Legislature and governor.

Cicero trustees also approved asking voters if electronic monitoring should not be an option for those charged with illegal gun possession who cannot make bail.

Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx’s office had no comment on the referenda but points out the Legislature sets guidelines for sentences which are then handed down by judges.