Temporary Rockford Courthouse fence sparks debate over security and costs

By Catrina Barker | The Center Square contributor
The Center Square

(The Center Square) – A temporary fence surrounding the federal courthouse in downtown Rockford, Illinois is drawing sharp criticism and competing explanations from federal and state officials.

Illinois U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen, D-Rockford, said in a recent social media video that the Trump administration has not been transparent about why fencing went up around the building.

“My office is also leading a letter to Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem, asking specific questions about the precise nature, the cost, the time these fences went up, but most importantly, she needs to answer what purpose,” Sorensen said. “I’ve been in close contact with Mayor Tom McNamara, with Alderman Kevin Frost Bell, with other city leaders, state and federal leaders, to make sure that we’re doing everything that we can to protect the people of my hometown of Rockford, Illinois.”

State Rep. John Cabello, R-Machesney Park, who also works for the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department, pushed back sharply, saying Sorensen’s outreach to local officials shows a lack of understanding of how federal security matters are handled.

“Congressman Sorensen’s an absolute idiot,” Cabello said. “Number one, he calls the mayor of Rockford. The mayor of Rockford has no clue. You’re the congressman. You should know what’s going on.”

McNamara told The Center Square, “As Mayor, the buck stops with me. I have responsibility and accountability, which Cabello certainly does not.”

Cabello called the fence a cost-saving precaution against potential unrest.

“Look what they did in Seattle, look at what they did in Portland,” said Cabello.

According to Julie Hodek, spokesman at the U.S. District Court, temporary fencing has been installed near the Stanley J. Roszkowski Courthouse to help visitors access the building safely.

“The United States Marshals Service is responsible for safety at the courthouse and will ensure the security of anyone seeking assistance from the Court,” Chief Judge Virginia Kendall said.

The court noted that individuals facing federal criminal charges will appear before a judge in the Northern District of Illinois, while those in deportation proceedings are handled administratively.

Officials declined to comment on the cost of the fencing.

Cabello explained the concerns voiced by Democrats were misleading the public.

“Sorenson, [U.S. Sen. Tammy] Duckworth, [U.S. Sen. Dick] Durbin, and McNamara have an issue with it, well, that’s just tough,” said Cabello.

Sorensen said “this isn’t about politics.”

“We all must make sure that our neighbors are protected and that we are served by the government, not threatened and put into custody by it,” said Sorensen.