Currently, prosecutors in both the juvenile and adult criminal justice systems have too much discretion in pressing charges, determining what sentences are sought, and negotiating plea deals. Trial by jury is a key tenant of the American criminal justice system, but heightened prosecutorial power significantly reduces the power and frequency of a trial by peers. Attempts at sentencing reform must address largely unchecked prosecutorial discretion.
“Rejecting Cannizzaro’s attempt to dismiss the case, U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo wrote that the district attorney’s subpoena practices, as alleged, amount to ‘systemic fraud’ and ‘shock the conscience.’ According to the judge, his request for immunity would ‘grant prosecutors a license to bypass the most basic checks on their authority.’ We agree.“
New Orleans Times Picayune
March 19, 2019
Read More“Those are just a couple examples of the long-lasting collateral damage caused by incarceration, and things could have gone differently. The prosecutor in charge of my case could have used a diversion option, like treatment court, or a different form of supervision that would have allowed me to address my addiction, options which would have minimized the impacts I still feel on my life today. I have since been told my sentence was extreme and that the prosecutor could have easily diverted me to a treatment court program or community supervision to address the underlying reasons for my addiction and subsequent crimes.“
Prison Legal News
October 31, 2018
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