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Farms and equipment gain protection under
increased criminal penalties
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[AUG. 15, 2005]
SPRINGFIELD -- People convicted of damaging farm
equipment will face tougher criminal penalties, under a new law sponsored by
state Sen. Bill Brady, R-Bloomington.
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Signed Aug. 9, House Bill 120 increases penalties for criminal
damage to farm equipment, grain bins, grain elevators and barns. It
also sets penalties for trespassing on certain agricultural
properties.
"This new law stems from recent events in Macon and McLean Counties
where farm equipment parked in fields was damaged or destroyed,"
Brady said. "Farmers have enough to think about when trying to deal
with the whims of Mother Nature. They certainly should not have to
worry about people damaging their equipment or trespassing on their
land. We are sending a strong message that such activities will not
be tolerated."
The 44th District Senator said there had been no penalty
specifically for criminal damage to farm equipment – farm equipment
was included in the general penalties for criminal damage to
property.
Supported by the Illinois State Police, the Farm Bureau and the Pork
Producers, House Bill 120 has an immediate effective date.
[press release from Senator Brady's office]
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