Case Explained: Immigration-Related Fears Often Keep Crime Victims Silent. Lake County Prosecutor Seeks to Change That. – Legal Perspective

LAKE COUNTY, IL —Immigration-related fears often prevent crime victims in Lake County from coming forward, state’s attorney Eric Rinehart said last week. But a new bill — House Bill 2731 — could create a pilot program, which would allow local prosecutors to provide legal assistance to non-citizen victims of violent crimes.

The Victim Centered Approach Pilot Program Act aims to help immigrant victims navigate complex immigration remedies while pursuing justice, according to a news release from the state’s attorney’s office.

The bill would authorize the state’s attorney’s office to represent eligible non-citizen victims before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. If funded, the program could provide legal counsel or direct representation to 50 victims per year over five years, totaling up to 250 individuals, according to the news release.

“Victims of violent crime should feel safe coming forward and working with law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable,” said Rep. Daniel Didech, D-Buffalo Grove. “This bill builds on the State’s Attorney’s innovative work supporting crime victims by providing direct legal assistance to immigrant victims of crime.”

To qualify, applicants must be non-citizens who have never been placed in removal proceedings, suffered a violent crime in Lake County, and are not barred from seeking immigration remedies, according to prosecutors. The office would ensure there is no legal conflict of interest and adhere to all ethical guidelines while representing victims.

The bill has received support from local community groups, including Mano a Mano Family Resource Center, said Sen. Mary Edly-Allen, D-Grayslake. These organizations see firsthand the barriers immigrant victims face, Edly-Allen added.

“Their advocacy has helped shape a thoughtful, victim-centered approach that reflects the real needs of Lake County residents,” she said.

Immigration-related fears often prevent victims from coming forward, Rinehart said.

“By providing legal guidance in appropriate cases, we can enhance public safety and hold offenders accountable,” he said.

Jacqueline Herrera Giron, Lake County’s chief of victim services, HB 2731 is “an innovative approach to focus on victims’ needs and provide access to immigration legal services, which is critical for both victims and the health of communities and families.”

The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office plans to continue working with lawmakers and community partners to advance the legislation and strengthen protections for victims of violent crime.