Illinois’ Most Common Violent Crimes

 Posted on February 26, 2024 in Violent Crimes

Violent crimes are those that are likely to go beyond threats or intimidation and right into violent, sometimes fatal actions, and Illinois has a serious violent crime issue. The state has reported higher violent crime rates three years running and it does not seem to be slowing down. The consequences of being accused of or charged with a violent crime can devastate entire families, often without any merit whatsoever.

If you are being accused of a violent crime, you should reach out to a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected - even if you think you are innocent.

Homicide

According to USA Today, in 2018, Illinois had the fourth-highest murder rate nationwide at 884 homicides in that year alone. This rate spiked 30 percent just two years later. Illinois recognizes four homicide categories, according to its statutes:

• First-Degree Murder - Knowingly and intentionally killing another person

• Second-Degree Murder - A murder of passion or killing during self-defense deemed unreasonable

• Involuntary Manslaughter - Engaging in reckless behavior that resulted in a homicide

• Reckless Homicide - Reckless conduct using a motor vehicle that resulted in homicide

Felony murder, the act of murdering while engaging in another felony, has since been removed from the statutes. It is treated as first-degree murder.

Sexual Assault

Illinois’ definition of sexual assault is much broader than most states’ and incorporates multiple forms of sexual assault, not just rape. Sexual assault in Illinois can include attempted or completed sexual assault, be it aggravated or not, and against any victim regardless of gender. Criminal sexual assault occurs when a person forcefully commits an act of sexual penetration while knowing the person is unable to object, does not know what is happening, or cannot provide consent. It also extends to family members where the defendant is under 18 years old or those over the age of 17 who are in a position of authority where the defendant is between the ages of 13 and 18.

Assault

Assault is the most common violent crime in the state of Illinois. The difference between assault charges depends on the location where the offense is committed, the status of the person it is committed against, or what weapon, if any, is used to commit it.

Simple assault occurs when a perpetrator commits bodily harm to a person or places a person in a position where bodily harm is likely. Aggravated assault includes that same principle with additional circumstances:

• The assault was committed in a public place such as a sports venue, bus terminal, or place of worship

• The assault was committed against a person with a disability, school faculty member, correctional officer, peace officer, and other types of civil servants while performing their official duties

• The assault was committed using a deadly weapon or a motor vehicle, or while discharging a firearm

Contact a DuPage County, IL Criminal Defense Attorney

Violent crime is an everyday occurrence. Illinois continues to crack down on these crimes by instituting new, harsher penalties for those convicted. When facing charges of this magnitude, it is essential to have an experienced Wheaton, IL violent crimes defense attorney protecting your rights. Contact the Davi Law Group, LLC for a free consultation to discuss your case at 630-580-6373.