California Crime Victims Are Pushing To Speed Up Executions

Crime victims in California are frustrated with the 17 to 24-year appeal process.  They recently proposed legislation which could cut that process in half.  If they are not successful with the California Legislature, they are prepared to take their proposal to the voter through the ballot initiative process.

Editor's comment:  One of the most commonly heard complaints about the criminal justice system is that it takes so long for death penalty appeals to be completed.  I suspect that the most common cause of death for death row inmates is old age.

New Hampshire Lawmakers Target Top Gang Members

Leaders of gangs would face longer sentences for their crimes under a proposed law.  "Leaders, organizers and supervisors" of a group of three or more whose primary purpose is to engage in criminal conduct will be targeted for longer sentences.

Editor's comment:  Kentucky needs a more comprehensive law prohibiting gangs and their gang-related crimes.  Gang violence is a huge concern and will only get worse unless we address it in a strong way.

Washington State Law Which Requires Landlords To Tell Tenants When They Rent To People With Criminal Histories Runs Into Roadblock

Lawmakers in Washington State were trying to make it easier for released offenders to find places to live.  It didn't work.  Advocates for crime victims demanded more notification to neighbors of offenders.  It didn't work.  Now the supporters of ways to assist released offenders in finding places to live will have to look elsewhere for ideas. 

Editor's comment:  Unsuspecting citizens should not be placed in harm's way by people who have knowledge.

Nebraska Lawmakers Approve Requirement For Ignition Locks For First Time DUI

People in Nebraska convicted of drunk driving for the first time might have to pass a breath test just to turn on their cars.  Drivers will have to blow into the ignition interlocks, and if they have been drinking alcohol, their cars won't start. Supporters of the new law say that the devices will thwart drunken drivers who try to drive even when their licenses have been revoked.

Editor's Comment:  If these devices save one person, including the driver, it's a good idea.

States Fear Plant (Salvia Divinorum) Could Become Next Marijuana

This species of Salvia is being targeted by lawmakers in several states.  They are concerned that the inexpensive, easy to obtain plant could become the next marijuana.  Some states are introducing legislation to make possession of Salvia Divinorum a felony.

Editor's Comment:  Here we go again. I hope we can cause people to avoid being in an altered state of mind. That's when bad and stupid things happen.

Supreme Court To Consider Death Penalty For Child Rape

A Louisiana man raped his 8-year-old stepdaughter.  He was sentenced to death.  The U.S. Supreme Court will weigh the constitutionality of the death penalty for the rape of a child.  Several states have indicated that if the high court permits the death penalty, they may try to enact such a law.

Editor's comment:  What a vile and violent crime.

Brooklyn Mothers Go After Gang Paraphernalia

Brooklyn mothers are taking a stand against gangs and stores that sell sports memorabilia in gang colors and styles.  One mother said, "Our communities are severely plagued by gang activity and violence."  One of the group's goals is to stand up to sports stores that peddle gang regalia to gang members and unsuspecting youth.

"It's not against the law to sell this stuff," said Brooklyn D.A. Joe Hynes. It's the kid who buys one of these gang-related hats and goes out and gets beat up, or worse, that concerns Hynes.

Editor's comment:  Again gang violence must be dealt with.  These mothers have obviously had it with these thugs and the stores that cater to them.

Who, If Anyone, Is Responsible For Disclosing The Presence Of Sexual Predators In A Neighborhood To Potential Home Buyers?

Mississippi:  Sellers must disclose the information, but only if the buyers ask.

California:  The law requires that all sales contracts include forms alerting buyers to the state sex-offender website.

Editor's Comment:  This entire issue points to the importance of the Sex-Offender Registries which are maintained in all states, and why they must be kept current.  Our office and Sheriff Kathy Witt work constantly to locate and prosecute sex-offenders who don't register when they move.