SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker signed an executive order Thursday creating the Illinois Accountability Commission. The group's goal is to document examples of misconduct by federal agents during Operation Midway Blitz.Â
The Pritzker administration said it must protect human rights and restore public trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
"This is about standing up for Illinois values when federal leadership has abandoned the American principles that all of us hold dear," said Illinois Department of Human Rights Director Jim Bennett.
The Illinois Accountability Commission will determine the most effective way to gather public videos documenting concerning actions of ICE agents and border patrol officials. This group plans to create a public record with hearings to document the conduct of officers and their impact on Illinoisans.
"Under normal circumstances, federal agency supervisors and inspectors general would enforce proper legal procedures and protocols and hold accountable those who violate them," Pritzker said.
The commission will analyze conduct and identify situations in need of urgent corrective action based on impact to the community. Members will also make recommendations for law or policy changes to ensure greater protection for Illinoisans from violations of their rights.
"Just because someone gets upset or frustrated doesn't mean that they can violate the Constitution and hurt people, detain people, seize people and even shoot people," said Judge Ruben Castillo, chair of the new commission.
However, Illinois GOP leaders said the state should be welcoming federal enforcement instead of criticizing their efforts.
"[Pritzker] talks about if they were just in here getting criminals and gang members, then they should be collaborating with us," said House Minority Leader Tony McCombie (R-Savanna). "Well, the fact of the matter is, our law enforcement can't collaborate because of the expansions that he's done on our TRUST Act."
The commission is required to provide a status report outlining findings and recommendations to the governor by Jan. 31.Â
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