SPRINGFIELD – Illinois crime survivors will now have guaranteed protection from deceptive interrogation tactics, thanks to a new law driven by State Senator Celina Villanueva.

“From the very first interview, survivors deserve honesty and respect,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “With this law, we’re making it clear that manipulation has no place in an investigation.”

The law expands the Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights by expressly prohibiting law-enforcement officers from fabricating facts or misrepresenting evidence when interviewing a reporting victim. It extends the promise of dignity and respect to the very start of an investigation—a stage advocates say is often the most vulnerable for survivors—and applies the protection to anyone a court or prosecutor determines has suffered physical or psychological harm from a violent crime, as well as to designated family representatives.

Illinois law already secures victims’ rights in courtrooms and hearings. Villanueva’s law closes the gap that existed before a case ever reached those venues.

“When people summon the courage to report abuse or violence, they should meet a system they can trust—one that pursues justice without compromising their well-being,” Villanueva said. “This law aligns our investigative practices with our values and strengthens public confidence in the process.”

House  Bill 3710 was signed into law Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2026.