GURNEE — Lake County State Senators Mary Edly-Allen (D-Grayslake), Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) and Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) released the following joint statement regarding a pursuit of individuals involving federal agents near Warren Township High School in Gurnee on Thursday:

“Our community deserves safety, transparency and respect — not reckless behavior that endangers children and residents. Today’s event made it clear that federal agents were not taking residents’ safety into consideration, resulting in a reckless high-speed chase during a time when children were being dropped off at school.

“What is especially alarming is the way the situation was handled so close to a school. There is already anxiety and fear surrounding federal agents coming into our neighborhoods and taking our friends and neighbors with no due process, exceeding their lawful scope. No one should have to live their lives afraid of their safety and well-being. 

“Today it happens in Gurnee but tomorrow it can happen anywhere. We must stay diligent and stand up to protect our neighbors. We stand with local leaders in calling for accountability and for a renewed focus on protecting the people we are sworn to serve.”

The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights offers a hotline (855-435-7693) that can connect individuals with an immigration attorney to understand their rights.