Honadel Wants Tougher Punishment For Mob Violence

On the heels of last week's , state Rep. Mark Honadel is drafting a bill that would bring harsher penalties for people taking part in mob-like attacks.

"While communities are now striving to be more vigilant and law enforcement efforts have been increased, I believe we must provide them with an option to charge these criminals with stiffer penalties," Honadel said in a news release. "I want to send the message that violent mobs will not be tolerated here in Wisconsin."

Honadel, a Republican from South Milwaukee who represents Oak Creek in the state Assembly, says families shouldn't be afraid to take their children to a shopping mall, park or fair.

Now that social media allows people to better organize such events, governments need to change laws to adjust, Honadel said. Other states, too, are enhancing laws pertaining to "mob action," Honadel said.

"Our laws must keep up with technology that allows social groups to quickly form a 'flash mob' to cause harm and violence," Honadel said.

In addition to the State Fair, mob violence was also seen in Milwaukee over the July 4 weekend. Across the country, cities such as Philadelphia have been dealing with similar problems.