Click on the post for an article in the Beloit Daily News that tells some of the background of the current discussion in Rock County about ways to lower the proposed cost of the new Jail.
One of the paragraphs in this article is pretty startling. About 50% of the total jail population currently is either in for probation violations or for drug related offenses. About 25% each.
One of the arguments I have heard is: "Who is going to supervise? With the current rate of probation violation, and the current environment of understaffing of the follow up--is a community release proposal responsible or is it a threat to public safety?
One of the ironic things about this discussion is that our own city and school officials have been resistent to even allowing non-violent first time offenders to use some form of community service in lieu of jail time---yet now we see a far more ambitious proposal. I am neutral on the issue so far. I need more input.
The question remains for me. Why cannot a first time non-violent offender cut grass? Community service is utilized around the world in various countries. Why not here?
You make the call.
Friday, June 23, 2006
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Well do you want the real answer or do you want more rhetoric?
ReplyDeleteThe real answer would be fine.
ReplyDelete