Chicago City Wire

Chicago Alderman Raymond A. Lopez has urged residents to contact their city council members in support of a new ordinance that would enhance penalties for individuals who wear full face masks while committing crimes. Lopez made these statements in a June 18 post on X.

"These face masks are NOT medical devices," said A Lopez, Ward 15 Alderman. "Wearing them in order to conceal one's identity while committing crimes in Chicago should come with enhanced penalties. Call your City Council member today & ask them to support O2024-0009463. It just makes sense!"

The ordinance, introduced on May 22, proposes an amendment to the municipal code by adding a new section, 8-5-010. According to the Chicago Councilmatic website, this section would "enhance penalties for persons arrested while concealing or attempting to conceal their identity during violation of Title 8 offenses affecting public peace, morals, and welfare."

Screenshot of Alderman Raymond A. Lopez June 18 post on X | X

The People’s Fabric responded to Lopez’s initial post, calling him "dishonest" and suggesting that the ordinance could penalize those who wear the hijab or scarf and increase penalties for wearing a hoodie.

Lopez responded with an image of the ordinance as discussed on May 22, 2024, which outlined the enhanced penalties for concealing or attempting to conceal one’s identity. "I know this is a hard concept for people to understand but the law only applies if you are breaking the law. Follow the law, like so often in life, and you will be fine," Lopez wrote in a second post on X on June 18.

The 4th Congressional District includes several Chicago neighborhoods such as Brighton Park, West Elsdon, and South Lawndale; most of New City, Pilsen, Chicago Lawn, Clearing, Garfield Ridge and Bridgeport; as well as Cook County communities including Burbank, Berwyn, Cicero, Brookfield, LaGrange Park, Northlake, Melrose Park, Berkeley and Franklin Park; and Dupage County communities such as Hinsdale, Elmhurst and Oak Brook.

Born in Chicago, Raymond Lopez attended St. Laurence Catholic High School and the University of Illinois at Chicago. He was elected to represent the 15th Ward in 2015 after previously serving as a precinct captain under the William Lipinski organization.