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.
“"The unit will investigate credible claims of innocence to ensure no one is convicted of a crime they didn’t actually commit," the release said. Since innocence projects began popping up in the 1990s, dozens of Michigan prisoners have been exonerated, including a record 14 in 2017, according to the National Registry of Exonerations.“
The Detroit News
April 10, 2019
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