A recent report from the Chicago Appleseed Center for Fair Courts scrutinizes policy changes implemented by Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke. It highlights a significant rise in prison sentences for retail theft during her leadership. The report accuses Burke of reverting to earlier ‘tough-on-crime’ prosecution strategies that have historically impacted Cook County communities negatively.
The report, released on Wednesday, calls for Burke to reconsider some of her policy decisions. Additionally, it suggests that the Illinois General Assembly raise the felony charge threshold for retail theft. Austin Segal, director of research at Appleseed and a report author, stated that many people commit retail theft out of necessity, such as the need for groceries and basic essentials.
Burke campaigned on a platform promising stricter crime policies compared to her predecessor, Kim Foxx. This has led to a divide with progressive groups seeking criminal justice reform. In response to the report, Burke’s office stated its focus on public safety, which includes removing dangerous weapons from the streets and supporting crime victims. The office is open to discussing the report with Appleseed.
The report titled ‘500 days forward, 10 years back’ examines the influence of Burke’s new policies. It includes analysis of press releases, news articles, data, and public records. Previously, Appleseed also evaluated Foxx’s tenure.
The Burke administration has targeted retail theft, gun possession, and domestic violence cases, imposing higher charges and stricter pretrial conditions without differentiation,” says the report. “Policies removing checks on police and federal agents have also been enacted.
In defense of the policies, Burke’s office emphasizes its focus on addressing gun violence. Yvette Loizon, chief of policy, points out the daily priority given to gun-related issues.
The Tribune previously reported on detention policies and other changes leading to increased jail populations. This included a program enabling police to file certain gun charges directly and a shift in restorative justice court referrals, which was later retracted.
The report discusses changes in the felony retail theft charging threshold. Previously, Foxx’s administration refrained from felony charges unless theft exceeded $1,000 in value. Burke has reverted to the $300 threshold, in line with Illinois law. The data shows 36% of retail theft cases were charged as felonies in 2025, up from 18% in previous years.
Retail theft convictions resulting in prison rose to 7% in 2025 from 3% in 2024. The 2024 figure was a decrease from 2023, where 6% of such convictions led to imprisonment. The authors urge lawmakers to raise the felony threshold for retail theft, noting Illinois’ $300 mark is one of the lowest nationwide.
Imprisoning individuals for retail theft relates largely to poverty. Such measures only further destabilize families and communities, exacerbating the underlying issues, the report concludes.