DeKalb Times

State Senator Dave Syverson (R-Sycamore) has called for stringent border policies and law enforcement measures following a significant drug bust involving Mexican nationals in McHenry County. 

Syverson’s latest contribution to the debate comes amid growing concerns over illegal drug trafficking and its impact on communities across Illinois amid an influx of tens of thousands of illegal immigrants into the state. 

“The lack of a border policy has allowed some of the worst individuals from around the world to enter America,” Syverson, the longest-serving member in the Illinois State Senate and known as its Dean, told the Dekalb Times. “Record numbers of drugs have been brought in, making the cartels billions and resulting in numerous deaths.” 

The veteran lawmaker pointed directly to the recent arrest of two Mexican nationals, Enrique Navar-Favela and Robert Cristian Chavez-Salgado, who were apprehended with 17 kilograms of cocaine and fentanyl valued at $425,000 at a Super 8 motel in McHenry County on July 2. 

“This should have never been allowed to happen. When Illinois became a welcoming state, it compounded the problem dramatically. Those local leaders and the Governor need to be held accountable,” Syverson said.

As debates intensify over immigration policies and their impacts on drug trafficking, Syverson reiterated his call for border enforcement, stricter laws and vigorous prosecution of offenders.

“Close the border, enforce the laws, and prosecute to the fullest extent to send a clear message,” he said.

Syverson’s comments come after Navar-Favela and Robert Cristian Chavez-Salgado were apprehended at a Super 8 motel where Chavez-Salgado was found with a duffel bag allegedly containing the drugs. 

The duo faces serious felony charges including possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute. 

According to the Lake and McHenry County Scanner, Navar-Favela, without U.S. identification, indicated plans to return to Mexico soon. Concerns over the lethal potency of fentanyl were underscored during court proceedings by Judge Carl Metz.

Syverson’s comments echo a recent 2024 Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) report highlighting the severity of the drug crisis in America, particularly in Chicago, deeming the fentanyl crisis the "Deadliest Drug Crisis Ever."

The DEA report reveals that an alarming 80% of all street-level drugs in Chicago are believed to originate from the Sinaloa cartel, underscoring the cartel's extensive influence despite law enforcement efforts.

Fentanyl, noted as the most pressing threat in the DEA report, has exacerbated the overdose epidemic nationwide. 

The report also warns about the rise of digital drug dealing through social media platforms, emphasizing the dangers posed by counterfeit pills laced with lethal substances.

Syverson represents Senate District 35 which includes parts of McHenry, Boone, Kane and DeKalb counties as well as the communities of Marengo, Havard, Poplar Grove, Sycamore and Cortland.