Illinois law enforcement agencies are divided on whether the state should ban the sale of so-called “assault weapons.” During a hearing this week in Springfield, supporters of the ban, like Sergeant Mark Marianovich of the Chicago Police Department SWAT team, say assault weapons pose too great a threat.
"Not only are many bulletproof vests unable to stop a round from an assault weapon, but the damage caused by the assault weapon can be much more debilitating than a handgun round. Putting an officer down, rending him unable to help himself, his partner, or other victims.” -Mark Marianovich
But the Illinois Sheriffs' Associationopposes banning assault weapons. It says lawmakers should instead focus on other ways to reduce gun violence ... by making sure current laws are enforced and helping the mentally ill.
Illinois Public Radio's Chris Slaby contributed to this report.
