After a tragic incident on a CTA train in Chicago, there are pressing concerns about the electronic monitoring system in Cook County. Bethany MaGee, a young woman, was set on fire during the attack, prompting scrutiny of the oversight of offenders on electronic monitoring.
Details of the Incident
The attack occurred on November 17, when Bethany MaGee was reportedly assaulted by Lawrence Reed. Reed, who has a lengthy criminal history of 72 arrests, was under electronic monitoring due to a prior offense. Prior to the incident, he had violated his curfew multiple times.
Curfew Violations and Alerts
- Reed’s curfew violations were reported in the days leading up to the attack.
- An alert about Reed’s violation was issued shortly after noon on the day MaGee was attacked.
Investigation and Response
The Office of the Chief Judge of Cook County, which now oversees the electronic monitoring program, expressed deep concern about the incident. They emphasized the importance of public safety and stated they are reviewing procedures to improve the monitoring system.
Concerns Surrounding Oversight
The transfer of the electronic monitoring program from the Cook County Sheriff’s Office to the Chief Judge’s office has faced criticism. Teamsters Local 700 has voiced that the change compromises public safety and has urged a return to prior oversight measures.
Federal Court Proceedings
Due to the pending federal court case against Reed, specific details about the legal proceedings cannot be disclosed. The Chief Judge’s office highlighted the importance of adhering to rules that safeguard judicial integrity.
Statements from Officials and Public Response
The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office has defended its practices, stating that the judges denied their requests to detain Reed following earlier violent crimes. This incident has drawn attention from various officials, including former President Donald Trump, who criticized the judicial decisions that allowed Reed’s release.
Response from Local Leaders
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker addressed concerns about the SAFE-T Act, which aims to give judges more discretion in detaining potentially dangerous individuals. Data indicates that 94 percent of individuals released pretrial since the start of the Pretrial Fairness Act have not committed new violent crimes.
Community Impact and Support for MaGee
Following the attack, a GoFundMe page was set up for Bethany MaGee. Her family described her as a “gentle spirit” and expressed gratitude for the community’s support during this difficult time.
Looking Forward
- The Chief Judge’s office is considering reinstating the reporting of escalated electronic monitoring alerts to the State’s Attorney’s Office.
- Immediate changes to the electronic monitoring program could prevent future tragedies.
The tragic incident involving Bethany MaGee raises significant questions about public safety and the effectiveness of the electronic monitoring system in Cook County. Action is needed to enhance oversight and prevent future harm to individuals in the community.
