Oswego Police Chief Jason Bastin discussed recently-enacted criminal justice reform laws, including the SAFE-T Act, Tuesday, Nov. 21.
In a speech titled “How New Illinois Criminal Laws Affect Law Enforcement, Prosecutors and You,” Bastin addressed Aurora Council, Navy League of the United States’ dinner meeting at Riverview Diner in Montgomery.
Bastin said, “There are several positive reforms to come out of the SAFE-T Act.” According to the chief, they were:
- Misconduct reporting and sharing of information;
- Body-worn cameras;
- Mental health screenings;
- In-service training;
- Duty to intervene and render aid.
Bastin noted, “There were a lot of issues with the initial SAFE-T Act, but the rider bill resolved most of them for police.”
According to the chief, a half dozen Oswego officers have taken early retirement without pay since criminal justice reform legislation was passed.
—Al Benson