The recidivism rate in Florida has dropped and is continuing to fall, said the Department of Corrections Secretary Michael D. Crews. But, he says, more can be done and private prisons and companies should stay out of state business. [Read more…]
Fort Lauderdale “Porsche Killer” Given Posh House Arrest
A 36 year old son of a wealthy jewelry dealer killed two British tourists on Fort Lauderdale Beach in 2009. He was sentenced this week and his sentencing arrangement has many people, including the British, scratching their heads. Basically, his money bought him a more lenient sentence when the victims’ families agreed that they would prefer restitution to jail time. [Read more…]
Miami-Dade Begins Second Chance for 1st Time DUI Offenders
In the coming weeks a new program will be rolling out in Miami-Dade. “Back on Track” is designed to give first-time DUI offenders a second chance. It’s a diversion program that will allow those with a otherwise clean record to avoid a conviction while saving the local courts some time and money. [Read more…]
Florida Considers Removal of Some Drug Mandatory Minimums
Some lawmakers are looking to remove mandatory minimum sentences for drug users and allow judges to get back to the business of sentencing. And while the proposition has support on both sides, the Governor is adamant that changing sentencing laws is not the right solution. [Read more…]
Will Florida Prescription Drug Monitoring Be Nixed Before Launching?
It’s been almost two years since Florida lawmakers voted to create a prescription drug monitoring database. And yet it still hasn’t taken shape. A new article from the St. Petersburg Times examines all of the variables that have stood to delay the launch of the program and the issues that may be leading to its demise. [Read more…]
Florida Reentry Program Helps Convicts Stay Crime-Free
If you’re the type to read the news in the morning, you no doubt have run across many stories concerning people who have been released from prison only to commit another crime and be sent back. The recidivism rate in this country is alarming and due, at least in part, to the lack of actual treatment and rehabilitation going on behind bars. One Florida program, however, was highlighted this week as they seek to increase their funding. [Read more…]
Florida Lawmakers Look to Sentencing Reform
In an effort to cut state spending, lawmakers are considering change to criminal sentencing. Among those potential changes—identifying offenders with drug problems and mental health issues, and treating those afflictions through treatment rather than solely through incarceration. [Read more…]