Longer sentences neither deter nor reduce crime. Instead, Chicago should improve economic conditions (increase jobs) and reduce the number of firearms in circulation.
Why is this important?
Mayor Rahm Emanuel is pushing to increase the mandatory minimum sentence for gun crimes from one year to three years. There is no evidence that this approach has a significant effect on gun violence.
Illinois should reduce gun violence through strategies that work: improve economic conditions (increase jobs) and reduce the number of firearms in circulation, particularly firearms that are not legally owned (registered).
