Saturday, March 6, 2010

Back Tracking on Budget Driven Early Release

Last week, the New York Times wrote about states that are reconsidering early release for prisoners as a means to save money in difficult economic times. The Times cited fours states reassessing early release.

1. Illinois--the governor described the early release plan as "a big mistake."

2. Colorado--the state thought they would save $19 million. In reality, they have released only 264 out of projected 2,600 inmates.

3. California--a victims rights group has sued to block the use of credit to reduce sentences.

4. Michigan--Prosecutors are challenging the early release of some inmates.

The public is demanding less spending, fewer taxes and the same level of security. Something has to give. It cost money to be tough on crime. What are voters willing to sacrifice to lock-up more offenders?

To read the article: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/05/us/05parole.html

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