An Illinois state legislature wants to ban the sale of violent video games, including Grand Theft Auto, as car thefts have increased in the state.
Representative Marcus Evans Jr., a Democrat, introduced a bill amending a pre-existing law that prohibits the sale of certain video games to minors. Its amendment would prohibit the sale of games whose subject matter included “theft of motor vehicles in the presence of a driver or passenger”, according to the Chicago Sun Times. The change has not yet been voted.
There have been renewed debates over the ban after youth car thefts have increased recently.
“The bill would prohibit the sale of some of these games that promote the activities we are experiencing in our communities,” said Evans, according to the Chicago Sun Times.
A 16-year-old was arrested and charged with car theft on Monday. Days ago, two 15-year-olds were arrested and charged with car theft as well, Fox 32 Chicago reported.
A former police officer was also abducted last week. The young perpetrators were found, but the policeman said “tThese guys feel like they’re going to come back immediately, especially since they’re young. “
Video games being the cause of violent acts in minors is a hotly debated topic, with some believing that banning violent video games for children would help to decrease crime, while others believe that video games do not contribute to aggressive acts in children.