“This is a serious problem. From the standpoint of Illinois’ reputation as a tourist destination, a place to do business and a quality place to live, we have to send a message to people, especially young people, that you cannot use your knowledge of social media to terrorize anyone, anywhere in Illinois,” said Dillard.

SPRINGFIELD - In response to incidents of “flash mob” situations where groups of people use social media as a way to organize and commit criminal acts, State Sen. Kirk Dillard (R-Hinsdale) co-sponsored with State Senator Kwame Raoul (D-Chicago) Senate Bill 1005 , allowing courts to increase penalties for those that use electronic communications, including Facebook, Twitter or text messages, to coordinate mob action.

Though the term “flash mob” usually refers to a group of people using social media to assemble suddenly in a public place, often to participate in some sort of theatrical performance, Dillard explained that in recent years participants in flash mobs have knowingly gathered to commit batteries, robberies and thefts in large numbers. Senate Bill 1005 allows the courts to impose an extended term sentence for those convicted of using electric communications to solicit or commit mob action. By increasing penalties for participation in flash mobs, the state hopes to deter future violent and aggressive gatherings.

“This isn’t just a serious public safety issue—it is a public perception issue as well. As a prominent business leader told me just the other day, ‘we can solve all of Illinois’ economic problems, but if there is the perception that it is unsafe to walk down our streets without being accosted by teenagers and thugs, then we have a real problem,’” said Dillard.

In fact, in early April a group of 28 teenagers gathered on Michigan Avenue, obstructing pedestrian traffic, starting fights and, in some cases, attacking people. That same day 11 teenagers—some of them complete strangers—used Twitter to coordinate a meeting, and in that instance two women were assaulted. These incidents have received significant media notoriety, and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has articulated a need to deal with the problem.

Having been approved by Senate lawmakers on April 24, the measure now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.