Lake County Sheriff Candidates Clash Over SAFE-T Act

LAKE COUNTY, IL — The two candidates running for Lake County sheriff have differing views on the Illinois' SAFE-T Act, which eliminated cash bail statewide in 2023.

Democratic incumbent John Idleburg, who is seeking a third term, believes the law has brought positive changes to the criminal justice system, although he says some provisions warrant further evaluation. Republican challenger Roman Buchberger, meanwhile, says the law has not been effective and fails to address broader economic and community challenges.

The candidates shared their views in questionnaires submitted to Patch ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.

• Lake County Sheriff Candidate Questionnaire: John Idleburg
• Lake County Sheriff Candidate Questionnaire: Roman Buchberger

Illinois became the first state to eliminate cash bail when the Pretrial Fairness Act took effect Sept. 18, 2023. Judges now decide whether defendants can be released as they await trial — with or without conditions — or if they must remain in custody under specific legal criteria.

Idleburg, who has served as sheriff since 2018, said the law has helped make pretrial detention decisions less dependent on defendants' financial circumstances.

"I believe the SAFE-T Act has brought positive changes, particularly in strengthening law enforcement accountability and making pretrial detention decisions less dependent on a person's financial circumstances," Idleburg wrote in his questionnaire. "Individuals who can afford bail can no longer be set free when they’ve committed violent crimes."

However, Idleburg acknowledged implementing the law has required adjustments by law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, courts and correctional facilities. He said he worked with state legislators when the legislation was introduced to address concerns about its potential effects on public safety and law enforcement.

"I believe the law should continue to be evaluated using actual data and the experiences of those working within the criminal justice system," he said. "When changes are needed to better protect victims, support law enforcement, or improve public safety, I'll continue working with our legislators to address them."

Buchberger, a Zion resident with 32 years of law enforcement experience, offered a different perspective when asked whether the SAFE-T Act and elimination of cash bail have been effective.

"No," he responded, arguing the law fails to adequately address economic disparities between communities or provide sufficient support to help vulnerable residents avoid negative interactions with law enforcement.

The SAFE-T Act has remained a subject of debate in Illinois since its passage, particularly over how pretrial release decisions affect public safety and fairness within the criminal justice system. Although cash bail has been eliminated, the law still allows judges to order pretrial detention for defendants charged with qualifying offenses when prosecutors establish the necessary legal grounds.

Idleburg and Buchberger will face off in the Nov. 3 general election.