(The Center Square) – An Illinois lawmaker who also serves as a police officer says Chicago’s new campaign posting signs on CTA trains and stations warning that violence is illegal is a positive step, but real improvements in public safety will require stronger enforcement and a greater law enforcement presence.
The Chicago Transit Authority recently began displaying signs throughout its transit system reminding riders that violence is illegal.
In a video circulating on social media, Cook County State’s Attorney said the campaign is intended to deter crime and encourage witnesses to report criminal activity.
“We are putting up these signs as an indication of what the consequences will be to any fearful actions on the CTA,” Burke said. “We are hoping to deter crime and to encourage people to move forward if they are witnesses of a crime.”
State Rep. Patrick Sheehan, R-Lockport, who also serves as a police officer, said he appreciates the campaign’s message but questioned why such reminders are necessary.
“I’m not opposed to the sign. I actually appreciate its forcefulness,” Sheehan said. “I just think it’s an absolute shame that these need to be posted in the first place.”
Sheehan blamed what he described as years of soft-on-crime policies for the need for the campaign, criticizing the state’s criminal justice policies and former Cook County State’s Attorney .
“I think that’s why we’re here with the posting of these signs,” he said.
Sheehan said he believes recent public safety efforts, including increased patrols by the Cook County Sheriff’s Office and Burke’s approach to prosecution, are moving in the right direction.
However, he questioned whether money spent on the awareness campaign could have been used to further increase law enforcement resources.
“I’m kind of curious on the price tag for these signs,” Sheehan said. “Could we maybe have used some of that money for more officers? We could always be doing more.”
Asked whether the signs alone will influence rider behavior, Sheehan said he believes visible law enforcement has a greater impact than messaging.
“I don’t think a sign necessarily will make them feel safe,” he said. “I think when they see actual presence of law enforcement, that’s when they actually will feel safe.”
Sheehan said the ultimate goal should be reducing criminal activity through enforcement and stronger penalties for crimes committed on public transit.
“As that criminal behavior starts to decrease, I believe riders feel their safety increasing,” he said.
While he described the campaign as “a step in the right direction,” Sheehan argued lawmakers should continue pursuing policies aimed at deterring violent crime on Illinois public transit systems.
The CTA did not immediately respond to requests for comment or answer questions from The Center Square regarding the campaign, including its taxpayer cost, funding source or how the agency plans to measure its effectiveness.
