(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- With the SAFE-T Act set to take effect across Illinois next week, one county has cut the ribbon on new courtrooms and staff offices that leaders say will keep things running smoothly.
“This is truly the beginning of a new era of justice in this county,” said DuPage County Board Chair Deb Conroy.
She was among officials showcasing new and renovated courtrooms and staff offices in Wheaton.
“These courtrooms and offices will give our staff a better ability to comply with the SAFE-T Act,” Conroy said. “I am proud to say that our efforts have DuPage County 100 percent prepared and ready to comply with this act.”
Chief Judge Kenneth Popejoy said county workers will have more space and comfort to work on cases once cash bail comes to an end. Residents coming to the courthouse will get in and out a lot quicker, too, he said.
Officials say remaining construction is expected to wrap up in the next month or two.
Illinois is ending cash bail as part of broader criminal-justice reforms. Moving forward, defendants considered dangerous to the public may be detained, while lower-level offenders will be released pending trial.
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