Once a Prosecutor, always a Prosecutor?


I’m wondering if a “prosecutor mentality” is what’s holding up the release of prisoners in Michigan. In our opinion, Governor Whitmer has done so many things right in this battle against COVID19. But, she’s been a serious disappointment when it comes to the release of prisoners.

The Parole Board says it is working overtime to get those people out of prison who are eligible for parole. But, PB members keep insisting that they do not have the jurisdiction to release aging, medically frail, and dying. And that’s where the Governor not only has the authority to do something, but in our opinion, the responsibility to do something!

We know that Michigan Prosecutors regularly take positions against early release of prisoners. They’re speaking on behalf of victims of crime, they claim. In our experience attending public hearings held by the Michigan Parole Board, it is not uncommon for prosecutors to oppose release of inmates---especially if the crime was assaultive in nature---regardless of length of time served, accomplishments achieved, and rehabilitation evidenced. It appears that punishment is far more important than whether a person might re-offend. 

Governor Whitmer was a County Prosecutor for only a few minutes, but is that the mentality that is holding her back on this issue? We hope not.

There are hundreds of applications for pardon and/or commutation of sentence, dating way back to Governor Snyder days, still on the desk of this Governor. We have clients who are very old, clients who are seriously ill, and yes, clients who are terminally ill. Their applications for commutation have been submitted, yet the only response has been a form letter.

Release of these men and women would pose absolutely no danger to the public. There’s not a hint of a possibility that any one of them would re-offend. They’re old, they’re sick, they’re dying, for heaven’s sake!

Prove that you care, Governor Whitmer. Prove that during this pandemic, all Michiganders, inside and outside of prisons, are your concern. We’re offering to help. No charge. No strings attached. Please, assign people to the task and start making things happen.

Time’s awastin’ and precious lives are at stake.



Comments

Sherrill Meenen said…
I hope she listens to you!
April 18, 2020 at 6:33 PM
OUR LIFELINE INCORPORATED said…
THANKS DOUG, FOR ALWAYS BEING DILIGENT & SINCERE:)
April 19, 2020 at 11:09 AM
Unknown said…
I am appalled at the irresponsible nature she has toward all Michigan citizens. I live in Michigan and in Wayns County and I am in total agreement with social distancing and shelter in place guidelines and have done so for a month this Wednesday. The sMe rules apply for our prison staff and inmates and she is sitting by and just watching people die and not even acknowledge their deaths.
April 19, 2020 at 11:54 AM
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