Lowering in Illinois the time an offense would have for people who commit a drug offense wouldn't be penalized for law enforcement this would give them more creative ways to deal with drug offenses. By reducing the prison population making it harder for individual's to get felony's this would reduce the harm done to different communities as they would have an easier time maintaining income as it would be more simple to get a job with no criminal record. Restorative Justice is a major part of the Governors proposal by getting crime victims the proper care and also rehabilitation criminals to better themselves for law enforcement the community is becoming a major part of policing. Also by giving judicial powers the right to choose if a offense will be criminalized by probation, jail or prison this won't label a person as a failed human being that will not be able to change but gives that person the chance to make things better in their life, the communities, and also for the people or person they may have offended. Eagle001
I'm with you on people will find more creative ways to deal drugs because if they aren't getting in trouble what is stopping them from selling more and more ? This will end up getting out of hand on selling drugs. Not every drug that is sold should be punished by prison but not everyone should just be able to "walk". Pie001
I definitely agree with your stance on this. taking away felonies for drug offenses would be unrealistic but this new way of handling it would work wonders in my opinion. it would show drug users and dealers that just because there will be possibly reduced sentences doesn't mean that they can just get away with the crimes they're committing 24/7. RM001
I do agree with what you said. Restorative Justice is probably more important as being detained as it actually teaches the inmates how to change their behavior and to become a benefactor to society. Rayder004
People need to be punished for their actions or why would they stop? Actions need consequences or people will keep making the same choices. Yes, their needs to be lighter sentences on certain things, but you cant take away certain punishments. Mustang003
By having a minor offense for drugs for officers doing investigations on drug related crimes they wont have to have such extensive evidence as they do at this current point in time as if a person is found quality of a drug offense they won't have such major penalties as they would now. With this being said with police officers in court they won't have such a burden of proof providing quilt therefore this will save officers investatigion time for other major crimes. With Illinois new crime reform which will also save invesgations time is tacking on the location of offenders when they commit a crime that is determined to be more serious within a certain distance of a giving them more options to choose from when deciding the punishment for a giving crime as this will be less serious because of the giving penalties with offenses near school senior citizens home or other public buildings. Reducing the prison population down from the current point will allow more money into the law enforcement agencies allowing for more extensive research into making sure the offender who committed the crime reminds to be the one who is charged with the crime and that the more extensive technology the state has that we don't charge an innocent person with a crime that person wasn't involved with. Eagle002
The recommendations produced in this report can be used by the criminal justice system to help create a more efficient running law enforcement system. A steady decline of the prison population can prove helpful to law enforcement as well as the government, as they would not have to pay to keep many prisoners of petty crimes in jail. The creation of new trauma-recovery centers can prove very useful as helpful safe places for victims recovering from any sort of crime that was committed on them. Also, with judges having the power to sentence people to probation or just jail time instead of prison based on the individual and the crime they committed, it can help many people receive the mental health care they need that they would not receive in prison. The recommendations that have been placed before our governor, are changes that could bring us many steps forward in improving our criminal justice system as well as communities all at the same time. Overall these recommendations will be of great help to the community as it will allow victims to seek help if they need it, as well as allow people who have committed less serious crimes an alternative punishment to prison. Pack001
This must create a more efficient system as this allows for the police to target crimes that are more harmful to communities. Having a smaller prison population would decrease the likelihood of spending a lot of unassay money on keeping prisons who shouldn't be behind bars locked away but by reducing we can spend it on what matters for law enforcement or important organizations in Illinois. The mental health feature of the new reform for criminal justice may help individuals to receive the help to not recidivism once they are out of the careful watchful eye of law enforcement. Eagle001
I think that the plans outlined in this article will greatly improve policing in Illinois. The programs to help recognize and counter racial and ethnic biases will help to greatly improve relations between police and minorities in their communities. The other programs that have been outlined will help to continue the decrease in prison population. I think that all of these policy changes will help to improve the state of policing in Illinois. EKT004
It's good to see the see state government recognizing and mending the issues in high incarceration rates as well as a negative face of recidivism. I'm sure the federal funding to support the halfway programs and facilities won't prove to be too much of a problem to maintain. Hopefully we will begin seeing more reports of positive numbers when it comes to corrections, and I hope crime prevention follows suit. Although, I attended a panel discussing the position we are in terms of policing as well as resolutions, albeit in regards to racial issues. Just the local governments alone spoke on plans to focus primarily on improving the conditions of lower class zones and also programs to improve police-community relations. Perhaps this list of recommendations will serve as an example for everywhere to follow. JAY001
It is very important for these recommendations to be taken seriously by the government. These recommendations would help the criminal justice system take huge steps forward with not only helping to keep their citizens safer but also to help keep people out of prison who have no business being there. The public image can also be helped positively by these recommendations and the building of the halfway programs and buildings will help the public, and help the system better serve and protect its citizens. The services provided by the programs and facilities will be of huge importance to many victims of crimes, as well as the criminals who need the help from the programs as well. Pack001
I agree with you, JAY001. I think that high incarceration rates are an issue now, and believe that it will continue to be an issue in the future, especially if we do not take measures to improve these statistics. It is good to hear that they are finally realizing and trying to come up with this, as we have seen a decline from 2015 by about 9%, and I am hopeful that we will continue to see this decline throughout the criminal justice system. gh_blackhawks001
I agree that the incarceration rates are very high. They have gone down about 9% and that number should keep increasing as the population in the jail shall decrease. Some people make mistakes and they shouldn't have a serious punishment for a first offense for something not all that bad. Yes, their needs to be punishments so they won't do it again, but don't make a punishment that they can never overcome. Mustang004
Hopefully Illinois government can stay on top of these recommendations particularly for the sake of recidivism rates and the positive change for inmates being released from prison or jail. What I feel is most important in this article is the potential to remove the harsh flaws of mandatory sentencing. Giving judges more discretionary powers will improve the personal and economic power of both the inmates getting released or properly punished as well as even the state, in the long run. There's no denying that some people are receiving high sentences with no room for personal progress, for doing something stupid once when they were younger. I have high hopes that criminal justice systems will continue to develop in a positive manner with commissions like these as the flagships. Hopefully there's no concerns about the funding for these recommendations, and that taking the necessary steps to completing these changes go smoothly and quickly. The reduced rates in jail and in prison are directly related to the reduced stress of the facilities and faculty that run them, which I think think the long run can also relieve financial stress all around as well. Good job, Illinois. JAY002
Reducing recidivism rates was a popular topic in one of my previous classes. But in this case reducing sentences on certain classifications of crime seems to work by gradually helping prison populations decline. I also like the idea that a judge, who clearly understands the effects of his actions, can sentence an individual to jail or even probation instead of prison. Probation is not the cheapest or easiest method when it comes to controlling the deviant acts of another person. So we resort to jails and prisons where we can isolate offenders from mainstream society. In the past it might have been easier to just lock an individual up and throw away the key just to call it a day. But now, that type of decision making is coming back with a negative after effect of overpopulation and lack of funds/resources. I believe that reducing the sentencing on certain crimes is not the worst idea, but it may cause offenders to think less about the consequences of their wrongful actions. The best thing to do is encourage community based policing as much as possible in hopes that people slowly stop committing any kind of crime. Bry001
I agree with this all the way. It starts with the community basically. It has always easier to lock them up then to have to deal with them pretty much. Trust is a big issue and it plays a huge role in this as well. I think if the community started to trust law enforcement and realize they aren't just "harassing" you the less they may want to committ the crimes. Ciaccio002
reducing the sentencing for drug related crimes would greatly reduce the number of inmates each prison has. Most prisons have large number of inmates that are in their on drug related charges. This could help the state save more money or even make more money by using fines. The justice system could find other alternatives to get these people the help they need. Some would have to go to rehabilitation or we could find them other alternatives. I hope that this greatly helps the state and more bills get passed that help thing go smoothly.
It would definitely reduce the population in prison throughout the state and also show support to society by the justice system that they care. It would also save money but not a whole lot of money because the justice system would just end up using the money left over for non important things or for the wrong things. But we will definitely see how successful this idea is. -NIKE001
I agree with you but then again I also don't. You made a great point when you said it can save more money but then again if they let individuals who are in there for drug charges out with fines. They might let those fines pile up and then nobody is making any money really. Those people aren't going to always pay those fines and they will have a harder time finding a job of that is on there records. I also don't the think people on drug related issues should stay in prison either I think they should save those spots for people who commit unforgivable crimes. They should he sent to like rehab or placed on house arrest or harsh probation for a while. They should have like someone who checks on them all the time. But you did make great points! Ofh002
I'm excited to see the positive impact this has. I think a lot of people worry this will increase drug habits but I personally think this just allows for more programs to be implemented and more jobs in this system while also reducing and already overcrowded prison population. Prison space should be for the most heinous crimes. Marras002
Over the past years. The criminal justice system has been trying to reduce incarceration rates and recidivism rates and as a result of that it sort of worked and it sort of didn't. But judging by what the criminal justice system is trying to do now, which is reducing sentences on crimes. I personally think won't work. Because if the system do reduce sentence on crimes, it will basically tell the criminals that the crimes they commit won't be harsh. But I guess if you think about it, it kind of does help bring down crime because it shows that the system doesn't want to hurt people and just lock them up and shows that the system wants to help criminals find a much more positive alternative to get the things that they want. But having new people in charge who understands the different situations that people go through and having that right person that knows how to deal with an criminal appropriately. Could definitely help this idea of reducing sentences on crimes and could eventually fix the criminal justice system throughout the whole United States. -NIKE001
I think what they are trying to work on is the overcrowding issuses that have been plaguing most all prisons. By abolishing the mandatory minimums on minor drug offenses and replacing them with alternative programs first rather than charging them with lets say a felony that causes them to keep being repeat offenders because they aren't able to get a job or government housing because of that record following them. I don't think it will make people think that they can get away with whatever crime they committed with a less harsher form of punishment I think it will make them see that judges and even law enforcement want to help them get out of a life of crime. Ciaccio001
I agree that small sentences could seem like a joke to a criminal, but instead of being locked up in jail they could also get sent to a rehabilitation center. If they get sent to rehab instead of prison, they are more likely to put their life of crime behind them. Using rehabilitation centers as forms of punishment can be so beneficial to America. zmw001
That's so true I agree! With you and everyone who had replied. Overcrowding is becoming issues. More riots and fights among inmates are taken place. Also there are people out here Who commit worse crimes and there isn't any room for them in prison. This will save money but I don't think of will help the chances of someone not commiting a crime once again when they are released. Alot of times rehabilition doesnt work they will finish the program and then go back to what they were doing before because they have became wrapped around it. Ofh002
To be completely honest I am not very surprised at all how bad the Chicago criminal justice system is. I find it funny how this never was a big issue until Rauner was elected. Suddenly it’s his fault Chicago is a big department, not as big as New York or other bigger city departments, but it’s still pretty big. From what I read Rauner is trying to save money and cut down on non-violent prison terms. From what I have seen about Illinois politics and spending, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Saving money is in our state’s best interest. And considering how messed up our state has been for awhile, I know our state needs to get smarter and stronger. Shite, some people live better in prisons, where everything is given to them, than on the outside. It is very expensive to keep someone fed and provide living quarters for them. Not only that but guards have to be hired and you got to give the inmates something to do. Or they go crazy or plot escape. Or both.
The thing though is that in some prisons inmates can work to earn money so then they can buy different items. This helps them stay busy and gives them the feeling of having a purpose even though they are in prison. Pie002
I think Illinois is heading in the right direction with these recommendations. The incarceration rates for minor drug offenses and even first time drug offenses are way too high. Lowering these offenses gives law enforcement and judges the ability to find alternative programs for these people instead of sending them straight to prison for an ounce. I like that something is finally being done about this problem. Prison shouldn’t be the only options for these people. You figure that the cost to keep one inmate is prison is well into the thousands a year, by knocking down the mandatory minimums for drugs it would save the state quite a bit of money. Other treatment options are a lot cheaper in the long run. Also, bringing back the discretionary power to the judges could help tremendously. Reducing prison population will help reduce the stress that these penal institutions have now with the overcrowding. I just hope that a lot more changes come to the criminal justice system now with everyone that is backing the changes. Ciaccio001
You aren’t kidding, Illinois has been going down the wrong path for a very long time. We need to save/ not spend money on stupid shite. My goodness. All the wasteful spending that has been happening for years. Rauner is trying to cut it down. Thank God. Illinois was going on a downward spiral, it still is don’t get me wrong, we are just pulling up. I don’t know if we can pull out of the spiral fast enough. But hopefully cutting down on wasteful spending will help. Paddle001
Illinois is going in a better direction by placing less pentalities on those who mess up in our society by less harsh pentalities will give opuritines for those who make a simple mistake to turn their lives around. Having alternative programs for these people could teach them how to correct thier behavior or to help the victim their crime may have effected. This is allowing for better communities tires as this is part of the restorstive justice process that is part of elimiteing people from more then just criminals. Eagle001
It's nice to see that something is finally being done about the problems within the criminal justice system in Illinois. Bringing back "halfway housing" for those getting out is a great idea. It is a great way to help those that have been in awhile adjust to life on the outside. Also implementing the "victim trama centers" is a great idea. There really isn't much help on both sides of the fences. Inmates getting out lack the help they need to get back on their feet since they are being charged with felonies for minor drug offenses which in turns ruins them getting a job anywhere and most government ran housing like section 8 or PHA. Leading them back to the same life that got them locked up in the first place. Things seem to be heading in the right direction with Rauner lets hope he keeps it up and keeps making the changes that are needed. Ciaccio002
It is nice to see some new changes within the system. Halfway houses I think was a very good idea to help stop recidivism. I think the victim trauma centers may last for a very long time because there are a lot of victims who could use that extra help getting through their issues. I totally agree with you on the fact that their isn't much help when offenders get out because they have no guidance to how survive the pressure of not getting a job or certain benefits with a criminal background. Yes lets do hope Rauner does his job correctly and continue to improve the criminal justice system. -NIKE002
I'm glad to see the criminal justice system, continuing to come up with new ideas of how to fix all the racial bias and other negative discretionary and also reduce populations in prisons. Because its coming to a point where no matter who you are, whether your white, black, straight, gay. If you run into a problem with the law it will always be against you. Which is why it seems like the criminal justice system doesn't care who they hire anymore and then they wonder why the system is the way it is now, "so corrupted." But reducing the sentences on certain crimes I think may be good and bad because it could show support and guidance to positive things. Then it could be bad and show weakness and lack of support to help those get on their feet and do positive things. It could also be good to because they would have a person in position who understands people needs and desires and how to make peace with everyone in order to have a successful plan on reducing sentences. But all in all I think it won't last very long until they find a issue with this plan and then wind up trying to fix the problem with this plan. -NIKE002
Reducing prison populations may help our society as a whole as this will lessen a lot of the damage that communities will not lose out on funding by using their taxes for individuals that are behind bars. Also, by having a lower prison population thgis will cause less stress on families as they won't have to find money for getting loved ones out on minor defenses this will, also allow for the police to use their discretion on which crimes are more important to pursue this is also all part of the restorative Justice process which will benefit society greatly. Eagle002
I agree, NIKE002, bias is an issue in the criminal justice system, although that as monumental as the mainstream media would argue. I hope that they will look more into the issue and work towards eliminating implicit racial and ethnic bias from law enforcement officers as well as lawyers and judges. If not addressed, I think we will see this problem continue, and potentially get worse as well. It is good to see them recognizing this issue. gh_blackhawks002
It is nice to see that the state is wanting to reducing the minimum sentences for each felony. At what age though do we let people who have never been in trouble before get away with selling drugs and have been for years but never had been caught? I don't want everyone who has made a mistake when younger to follow them. Prison shouldn't be the first place that someone ends up just because of a mistake (first offense). The Halfway Back Program is a great way to help try make sure that once out of the prison that everyone stays clean. All of these programs can have great feedback but everyone just needs to make sure that they are ready for the negative feedback also. Pie001
Like you mentioned, I think if someone got caught for the first time with drugs, they shouldn't have such a harsh sentencing. Yes, they do deserve some jail time but if it was a first time being in trouble with the law, why give them some sentence that could potentially ruin things for them in the long run. Clearly if someone didnt learn their lesson then all you can do is give them the sentence they deserve, but unfailingly giving someone who has no criminal record a dramatic sentencing won't help anything. Kt001
I agree with you 100%if you do a crime there will be a punishment but if you get caught 2 or more times doing the same crime they do deserve it. like you said first time offenders do not deserve to be ruined for a life time.steel001
I am glad to see that Governor Rauner is seeing that our criminal justice system isn't holding up to the standards that it should be. When it comes to drugs and crimes we are very worried about cannabis right now but the bigger problem is drugs like meth, crack, and heroin. Those are the drugs that need to have the harder charge. These are who needs help with the Halfway Back Program. This program can help get someone back on their feet and make sure that they are going to better their life. Pie002
I hundred percent agree with everything you say in this little post. Many cops are trying to still crack down on cannabis which they really should like you said they should be cracking down on more of the hard drugs. I also agree that programs like the Halfway Back Program can seriously start making a difference for people rather them just go to prison.CRC001
This would help the already underfunded departments not have to deal with a lot of unless, small drug stops. If you have to arrest a dumb kid who has less than an eighth of weed and he has to spend 10 years in the slammer, he or she would miss out of a lot of stuff in his or her life. They wouldn’t get to figure anything out and the chance for recidivism would go up. But if the penalties for drugs where non-existent, that wouldn’t be the answer either. Lawmakers have to find the balance between deterrence and all out tyranny. Underfunded departments wouldn’t have to spend a lot of their money on busting small hauls and would have the money that would go to that go into more important things. Paddle002
Reducing the sentencing time for some crimes seems to be an accepted idea if it helps with the overpopulation problem but I disagree with shortening the parole time. The recidivism rate is around two thirds so why would we lower the amount of time this ex cons are watched once they are back into the population with regular people. The parolees should have to prove that they won't recommit through a reasonable amount of parole time, which I believe should be more than just a year and a half, so that they can be somewhat monitored rather than nobody paying attention to them. Also I think it is a great thing to give judges the power to give offenders a lesser sentence based certain factors because judges should have be able to have some discretion like officers do. ACE001
I like that we are reducing the minimum sentence times because this could mean that jails and prisons will be losing inmates and this may help solve the overcrowding issues. This also helps with money, because prisoners can be expensive. The less prisoners we have, the less we will be paying for them, obviously. I also like how they are funding more rehabilitation centers. Instead of being sent to prison for a short time, people can instead be sent to these rehabilitation centers and hopefully they can get their lives on the right track. More rehabilitation centers could lead to less repeat offenders. zmw001
However, I feel like lowering the sentences could make criminals feel like the sentences are a joke and they will not be scared of the jail time. So maybe instead of cleaning people up and keeping people out of prisons, this will increase drug crimes because criminals simply do not care about doing so little time. I feel like we need to try something new because what we have going right now is not good enough, so lowering minimum sentences is a risk worth taking to me. zmw001
I also agree with the lowering if minimal sentencing. Drug sentences are too harsh in my opinion, and lowering them will and has really helped lower the prison population. I don't really know how I feel about them shrinking the size of the zones around schools and nursing homes and what not for drug dealers. I think that over protecting schools from people like that is a good thing.-OKC001
I think that taking advantage of other options besides incarceration is a great idea, mainly in the area of drug crimes. There is a very high possibility that getting locked up will not prevent that person from committing that same crime. However, supplying a place for rehabilitation and the help that they need may make a lasting impact on a person, forever changing how they live their life. I do not personally see the perks of spending the money to incarcerate someone for an extreme period of time on a drug charge, when we cannot be sure that it is making any difference. I thought that the recommendation of reducing the area from 1,000 feet to 500 feet when someone is being charged with drug crimes committed near parks, churches, schools and senior citizen facilities was a pretty good idea as well. This does not seem much different to me than committing the offense anywhere else, since anyone could witness it at any given time, regardless where the crime was committed. All of this is part of the attempt to reduce the prison population, hoping to do so by 25% over the next 10 years, which would obviously be a positive thing. gh_blackhawks001
I would definently have to agree with you points and opinions you are making. Especially on the part when you touch the point on putting someone in prison for a crime doesn't mean they wont get out and commit it twice. Half those people will get out and commit that same crime. It doesn't ensure that they will learn the lesson prison is. People often assume they are above the law and they don't get caught again. Then they violate the parole and what do you know they are back in that situation again. So that isnso very true I also don't 100% understand the perks of spending money to incarcerate for a long time. Your response was great! Ofh002
Recommendations that have been proposed include training to recognize implicit bias within the criminal justice system, including officers, judges, lawyers and lawyers. Along with that, they wish to pursue collecting data, on race and ethnicity to better understand how minorities are affected by this bias. Although the media comes across as proposing that every single law enforcement officer is biased and racist, that is not how it plays out. There are of course some bad apples within the criminal justice system, but claiming that a majority of the system is corrupt, is simply absurd and inaccurate. In every category of people, there will always be a small percentage of them that can potentially ruin the reputation of the rest of the group, and this is what we are seeing throughout the criminal justice system, not complete corruption and racial bias. Recommendations for reform are always focusing on decreasing prison population, and we have been successful since 2015, declining 9.6%. gh_blackhawks002
These recommendations will surely help bring the criminal justice system to a more efficient state, and will allow for the system to be run more effectively. It is true that the system has received a bad name because of the actions of a few bad apples, but the system as a whole is fair and just. It is the job of the people within the system and those planning to enter the system as a criminal justice major to help usher out those bad apples and make way for more just people. The decreasing incarceration rate is also helpful to the image of the system as it shows that the system has become more understanding and compassionate wit the people that abide within it. Pack002
Governor Rauner in my opinion did a wonderful job handling the process of reforming the Illinois criminal justice system. He went about it in such a way that didn’t throw any one party under the bus, but also brought about real change. The fact that the prison population has dropped almost ten percent since much of this was enacted is proof that it was handled correctly. Through Governor Rauner’s actions, real change was brought about that actually benefitted the community. I think that in this one case, other states can look to Illinois as a great example on how to reform your criminal justice system. Getting Republicans and Democrats to actually work together on a bill has brought about fast change, and we as a public need to push for this cooperation to continue so that we may be actually benefitted by our state government. The fact that this plan over the next ten years will drop our state’s prison population by 25 percent is reason for applause. With more positive changes like these, Illinois can become one of the shining examples on how to reform our criminal justice system that is fair and effective for all parties involved. I really do appreciate the fact that Governor Rauner didn’t drag the criminal justice community through the mud when he put this plan into action, like President Obama has done. -OKC001
I agree with your statement, i do think that it is positive that the prison population has decreased and that this is a step in the right direction. With positive changes i thing that there will be more of a positive outcome. bball001
These recommendations that have been imposed could help benefit investigators throughout their daily jobs. The changes being recommended to change the type of offense a certain drug charge should be, will help investigators quickly determine whether to investigate the charges or to leave it and move onto more serious drug offenses. The movement to try and lower prison population might not be as helpful to investigators however as they may not be able to pursue the correct length of punishment they wish the criminal to be given, simply because the system is trying to make it so not as many people go to prion. Nonetheless, these recommendations will do much more good than harm to the system, and will help the system to continue to better itself for the good of the people. Governor Rauner should be given much credit for his ability to actually bring about change instead of sitting back and waiting for it to happen on its own or waiting for someone else to do it. He could be looked at as an example for other states, so they may too follow in the footsteps of change and help to better their own communities and in the process the country as a whole. Pack002
I believe this reform will help both the people in the community and the people getting put away fro one bad mistake. The recidivism rates will hopefully go down due to the fact that the offender will not be molded into a more hardened criminal from spending so much time in prison. Dropping the prison population by 10% is a huge change in my opinion, it is saving money and helping the families without loved ones that are in prison. This reform will also help law enforcement determine what they need to spend more time investigating the petty drug offenses that pack the nation's prisons. I believe this will bring cooperation within local communities and bring law enforcement and society together in a time where law enforcement is very much looked down upon and ridiculed.looking at other ways to punish for crimes is just what this tangled up system needs, drug crimes in particular where the offender needs more help than being locked in a cell for years. This reform will help offenders get on the right path hopefully and ensure that they stay on the path to succeed and become a working part of society. #Klick61
I agree with you. Reform is always good when it impacts who and how long people are sent to prison. There is something wrong when a minor drug charge offender has a longer sentence than a first degree murder offender, but it does occur in our justice system. I also agree that we need a unity between our communities and law enforcement on all matters in order to improve our justice system. Banshee002
I agree when you say the Governor did a great job with this reform, when the criminal justice system is in much need of reform. I also agree with the fact that he did not bring the criminal justice community down with this reform like so many democrats have. That is a true leader in my opinion. #Klick61
Training to recognize implicit racial and ethnic bias among law enforcement, officers, judges, and lawyers to me is a good idea. As we know, America is made up of many different races, backgrounds, and beliefs, we would think that would be just as important to our justice system more than anyone since they are the ones who are pretty much in charge with everything. I do like the fact that they talked about reducing certain sentencing for different crimes. Some people get put away and are expected to serve an outrageous amount of time due to their unlawful acts. I just see it as we should really look into if it was that serious of a crime. Some people end up having their whole life thrown away just for some petty act and end up having to serve a ridiculous amount of time. Reducing certain sentences shouldn't just be to keep the population in jails/prisons down. As a person in law enforcement they should look into whether the punishment will actually work. Kt001
I agree with you on training to recognize implicit, racial, and ethnic bias. Its something law enforcement officers deal with every day of their careers and it is something they have to become good at dealing with. there are so many different ethnic groups in today's society along with a multitude of races. I also agree with liking the reducing the sentences on certain levels such as felonies. Not all criminal acts should be treated on the same level of punishment. HSP001
The criminal justice reform that has been taking place over the past few years in Illinois is exactly what needed to happen. Governor Rauner is continuously trying to find new as well as appropriate ways to decrease the prison populations. This not only helps open up enough room for the criminals that have committed serious enough crimes and belong in prison, it also give the ones who may have committed a crime that was more petty rather than harmful a second chance. By pulling some of these drug offenders out and or giving them a different option such as rehabilitation could send them on the right path. Locking somebody up in a prison cell for years is not always the appropriate thing to do especially when it comes to a drug charge, they need help. I feel as if though it is a good thing to see the government realize what they had been doing wasn't exactly working and to see them revise it. As stated in the article they were talking about reducing the sentence on felony charges except for class 4. A possibility for criminals that are sentenced to an extended period of time more than likely would not know how to return to civilian life in an appropriate manor therefore leading them right back to where they came from, the prison. By reevaluating and reducing these sentences this could greatly help this problem. I think what the governor is doing is solid plan. HSP011
I agree that locking someone up in a prison cell is not always the best thing to do, especially when the crime is nonviolent. Unique cases call for discretion to be used when it comes to sentencing, but it is difficult to balance discretion and law. I also think that it is important for ex-felons to be guided when it comes to them returning to civilian life. It’s hard for people with a criminal past to not fall back into what they were doing before they went to prison. With help from the criminal justice system, they can start a new life and become productive citizens. Scuba002
Reducing prison populations will help the criminal justice system run more effectively, but making sure the new, reduced punishment outweighs the perceived benefit(s) of the crime will be tricky. I agree with the recommendation of reducing sentencing classifications for felony drug crimes; I think it is absurd when drug offenders spend more time in prison than those who committed crimes that involved intentionally/ directly harming others. Also, shifting the funding from prisons to rehabilitation will better help those who committed minor offenses/ misdemeanors receive help they need so they do not end up re-offending. The government can also save more money by rehabilitating than incarcerating, as long as the rehabilitation is planned out smartly and effectively. It seems the system is moving towards giving criminals their rights back. In some states felons and ex-felons may permanently lose their right to vote; I believe they should be able to keep that right because they are still citizens of this country and most felons will likely return to civilization. The article includes that the federal government will pay for victim trauma-recovery centers. I like that the victims of the crime are not overlooked like they used to be. The criminal justice system is working towards giving victim more rights, such as the ability to speak during a sentencing hearing. Scuba002
I completely agree that this will help the criminal justice system. Especially, rehabilitation will help more than incarceration. I'm glad instead of just looking down on people for drug charges, they can be helped and get some of their rights back. stlblues001
It is very nice to see change occurring in the criminal justice system. While there is a lot of work to do, Rauner has definitely taken a step in the right direction. I'm glad that the law is now giving back some discretion to the judges to determine whether jail is appropriate based on the circumstances and based on the individual. Since Rauner created the Illinois State Commission on Criminal Justice and Sentencing Reform in 2015, the committee has introduced several changes to the criminal justice system. Some of which have been signed into law. Since the committee's creation the prison population has decreased by nearly 10%, which is great news to hear. JE001
I agree that this reform can be a blessing. people can start getting the help they need instead of being thrown straight into jail. this will help lessens the numbers in our prisons. which in the long run will save the state more money. evo001
The changes that Governor Bruce Rauner is integrating into the Illinois justice system are wonderful. The main thing he changed that i like is that the sentencing for felonies except class 4 has been reduced. I like the fact that this happened because it gives people more leeway when it comes to their crimes but it doesn't give them the idea that they can just get away with anything. The trauma recovery centers that were brought up for crime victims is such a great idea. When it comes to crimes it seems like the victims are cast aside without much care. These new additions will do wonders to this state that is riddled with problems ranging from our budget to our justice system which is extremely bad in this day and age. Also the fact that the funds that will be used for the victim trauma centers will be drawn from federal funds instead of state funds so that will greatly help our budget along with getting the centers put up faster. RM001
The article mentioned several new recommendations given by the Governor's commission on criminal justice and sentencing reform, including the introduction of new implicit bias training for police and changes in laws to reduce prison population. The article also mentions that the state prison population had dropped by almost ten percent since the body that made these suggestions was put together. One of the recommendations mentioned in the article was to reduce the minimum sentences for certain types of felonies. This can be good because it increases the amount of discretion a judge can have in determining what an offender's sentence should be. Another recommendation the article made was to introduce new implicit bias training to police departments. This can be helpful in getting police to acknowledge that they may have biases that they do not know about so they can address them before they hinder their ability to police effectively. Another suggestion was to halve the required distance that a drug dealer would have to be in of a school, church, or park in order for it to be an aggravating factor in their drug case from 1000ft to 500ft. Since the punishment for selling drugs near a school, park, or church is a longer sentence than the sentence for just selling drugs, reducing the distance and thus reducing the amount of people within the smaller distance will limit the amount of people who are incarcerated for longer which will reduce prison population. The question of whether these reforms will be enough will be answered by their outcome, if they fix all the problems of the criminal justice system then they will be enough, but if they don't they will not be enough. CoolGuy001
I agree when you said how some officers may face biases that they themselves don't consider to be "bias." As society grows and people change more and more minorities seem to be "targeted" by law enforcement officers. I don't believe that all officers think they are considered doing so because that's not their mindset and intentions but because of what is broadcasted nationwide. What is shown on news channels around the world is minorities being the main focus of all officers. Biases should be addressed to all officers due to situations they may face. It's important to always be prepared. behappy001
The final recommendations created by Gov. Bruce Rauner now adds another thirteen to the list. One of the most crucial recommendations, in my opinion, is the training to recognize "implicit racial and ethnic bias" among the-enforcement officers, judges, and lawyers. It also collects data on race and ethnicity to understand how minorities are affected. I feel like this is already currently being trained among departments around the U.S. due to the out-lash of violence from both officers and offenders. By understanding minorities and the way they think and feel in such situations may possibly decrease the uproar. I also think that reducing sentencing sentencing classifications for felony drug charges. By doing so, this will allow these offenders to rehabilitate and receive probation if need be. This will lead to a decrease in the state's prison population. As the article states, due to Sentencing Reform, the population declined by 9.6 percent. I also think it's great that trauma-recovery centers for crime victims will be established. This allows these victims to go back into society with a better mindset. Having them staffed according to their needs is a big benefit as well. Rauner has signed 15 criminal justice bills and i believe that these recommendations will benefit all. behappy001
Reducing prison sentences is one thing that matters right now in this day and age where taxes are getting extremely high and if we reduce prison sentences we won’t be paying as much for prisoners per year if they aren’t staying in prison as long. The idea for reduced sentencing for classifications of felonies for drugs is a great idea and a bad idea in my opinion. I like the fact that it will get lessened sentences for people who offend marijuana laws, as the drug is becoming more and more accepted with the research and medical advances it has made in the last few years. If the recidivism rate lowers due to these laws about the classifications of felonies it could do wonders for our prison system. RRM002
I think that's a very good point that you make getting people out of prison for lengthy sentences on drug crimes is what we need to be doing. There are many people who shouldn't be in prison for life scentences for selling drugs but people like brock turner doesn't even get a year in jail for raping someone? the system is off track, need to focus on what really matters. -dicaprio0001
I think reducing the sentences is a good thing because it reduces overpopulated prisons, and how much we're paying to keep prisoners inside. stlblues002
Every time you hear something about Obama it's always negative content. But I think this video proves a few people's doubts. Let'e be honest I think one of the main reasons people don't like Obama is just because he is a man of color.. that's just the ugly truth. One of the biggest reasons we are the most jailest nation in the country is because of the "war on drugs" ear. During their presidency Nixon and Regan decided to crack down on drugs. I believe they are one of the reasons we have 5% of the worlds population but 20% of the prison population. They are a factor of mass incarceration. Call me crazy, but i think it was all a huge conspiracy to lock of black people. Tie the weed to the hippies but make sure we correlate crack to black people. That's just my personal opinion though. The obama years were the least violent years, that counts for something right? Granting Commutations dosent mean he/she didn't commit the crime, it just means they have sufficently been punished. -dicaprio001
I’m glad to see the state government seeing the problem with big populations in prisons. Making this happen would help the criminal justice system move forward instead of backwards. It’ll help the ones in prison who don’t need to be in there for long sentences, and hopefully it’ll help the communities feel more safe in their own town. I know getting rid of crime altogether is impossible, but hopefully it’ll reduce. By reducing sentences, the state will also save money, which is a huge plus. stlblues001
It's pretty fantastic to see the government doing something, especially here in Illinois. Constant stand-stills in decisions and blah blah cut costs blah blah. Our state is failing in many ways, but it seems that the incarceration system will soon be a way that is not quite failing. And it's a cut to spending that truly benefits the state. - AJC001
Governor Bruce Rauner is changing sentencing for felonies. I like that this is happening because not everyone deserves long sentences, and getting a felony at a young age than not having a good life because of a mistake you made so long ago. I think it’ll be good in the long run because instead of just incarceration they can also get rehabilitation and that will help even more. The funds will be used for trauma centers to help even more. Hopefully, these changes will fix some of the problems in the criminal justice system, instead of making them worse. stlblues002
I agree with you people should not be charged for that long or something so small that can easily ruin there life. People can change there life around if they want to or can just keep getting caught with the same thing. But it is the right thing to do for people who only been charged once. Some people can learn there lesson form just that one time and turn them self around. I think they are doing this to save money and time.adelle002
I think it's an amazing thing to advise a training recommendation to recognize implicit bias and racial ethnic bias. There are many people within the system who have these bias, and use their power to get away with it. We all have bias even though we don't act on them, its there. If you'd like to admit it or not, it is. Illinois is also begging to reduce minimum scentences for each felony crimes, except class 4. Reducing for felonly drug charges. I think it's important to get people out of the system for simple drug crimes. Someone shouldn't be in jail for years for selling drugs. Another amazing thing is the Halfway Back Program an alternative for incarceration. We need to just stop locking people up and throwing away the key. It's nice to know the crime rate has gone down 9.6%. Illinois senate is going to pass a new trauma recovery centers for crime victims. That to me is amazing. People who have been victims never really get closure. They have specific needs that need to be meant, it's nice to know that they will be staffed according to their needs as well. This is such a win. -dicaprio001
Win win I say. The incarceration's rules of minimum sentencing has, from day one, been dragging out system into the dirt. Simply locking up everyone leads to a lot of costs, a lot of anger, mistakes, confusion, and so much more. Alternative ideals must be taken, and simple drug crimes should not be so harshly punished. Drugs are not any good, but they aren't the same as stabbing people to death. Plus, giving drug criminals a chance at rehabiliation is a much more sound solution for the society and economy as a whole. And for Illinious to be taking steps to help the system in pretty sweet. Our government has taken note and seeks to correct the problems. Only good can come out of forgiving minor drug offenses, and I see that the future of the Illinois incarceration system is likely to be a bit brighter, for everyone in and out. - AJC001
Many states over the years have been trying to reduce the amount of inmates that are incarnated in there prisons. By reducing the prison sentences on drug offences it can save the state a lot of money. Also many drug offenders need more help then just being incarcerated. In some cases rehabilitation programs can help and other programs can help. By using other programs to help inmates it can reduce the recidivism rate and save money. another thing about this article that caught my attention to me was the training recommendations to recognize bias implicit and racial. As a student stated in one of her their blogs many officers use bias because they have more power and feel as if they can get away with it. Hawks001
I like how they are offering a better way for people that are charge with drugs. Its not right for hem to charge them for that long for small offensives with drugs.To try and help them more to be a better person to enter the world of a new them. They should have treated them bettering the first place when they saw the problem not for the president to make it happen when h noticed it.I think that when this is taken place more people will be doing drugs because they know they can not get as charged much with drugs. They will just keep doing it and not learn there lesson of what it can do o there life and the people around them. But this is also good cause there are some people that have been treated badly by the laws than other people.So it shows that everyone will be treated the same when the are charged with same drug offences.adelle002
I don't think that people are going to see lower sentences as leeway to being able to do more drugs. There will still be sentences but there's no reason for people to be getting 20+ years in prison for drug offenses. The way the drug courts are looking at offenses is that lower sentences work, and that upon release there will be mandatory classes and meetings to help reduce the risk of recidivism. I don't really know what you mean when you say they should've treated them better in the first place, these are new recommendations being put into place. There was no better way previously, laws are laws. They tried to impose a maximum sentence whenever they could. That's the whole point of them trying to change the sentencing now. -Hootie002
People that are caught with drugs regardless if they are selling it or using it should get a hard punishment out of it. People need to realize that drugs are bad regardless of what drug it is. Maybe it will make people think about it before doing it. Is that little but of drug really worth it? hotfox003
I like how the governor is trying to reduce the prison population by making the sentencing for drug offence more reasonable. That being said he is right in that the correction system needs to be reformed in the way that when a convict gets out he has better chances to become a valued part of the community. So to be fair I think if you do get charged with the same crime multiply times you do deserve a harsher sentence. if he is trying to get the budget to be balanced then we need to either put prisoners to work and try to make up for the lost in money for incarceration and what medical issues they have while in that get pulled from the budget.steel001
Reducing prison sentences is something I believe strongly in and something I think the entire country needs to get on board with. From taking a corrections course I know that the incarcerated population is at an all time high, even though crime rates are actually decreasing. Reducing the minimum sentences for crimes would help those who are sitting in prison on petty drug crimes on ridiculously large sentences. But in the years past, that's how things were done. We tried to crack down on drug crimes by imposing the harshest sentences we could, and as proven by our every growing prison population it is not helping. The next step is to lower the sentencing, and work more on rehabilitation as opposed to strictly punishment. This will help those offenders to be able to rejoin the community. The main argument against lowering sentencing is that recidivism rates range between 50-75%. Yes, this is a lot but this is why we need to focus more on the mandatory classes and meetings that can help a former inmate create a well balanced life so that they don't feel the need to go back to their old ways that go them incarcerated in the first place. Training police departments how to recognize racial and ethnic bias among their coworkers and people in their field as well as looking at how certain races and ethnic groups are disproportionately showcased in the system is necessary. We can't afford to not look into biases in the police department with the ferguson riots still fresh in our minds and media blowing up any possible cases of bias the find. It's harder than ever to work in law enforcement today with media and racial tension at an all time high. Implementing training to limit any risk of racial bias or the misunderstanding of a possibly racially biased situation is needed. -Hootie002
I like how Rauner is requiring more training for police officers regarding race relations. I think there are many other areas to improve training for officers as well, especially on how to de-escalate a situation in order and shoot as a last resort. I know that that principle is taught in police training but how to enact it is often missed. Police officers may not have enough training in high stress situations and when faced with them can choose to act too soon. Quality education and training of our police officers should be a top priority in improving our justice system. Banshee002
I agree, i do think there is room for improvement but it is also good that they are requiring more training on how to act or what one should do. When faced with high stressed situations it is hard to think fast on what the correct way to do something is, therefore i believe that the training is a good thing to have. bball002
The reforms mentioned in this article all seem like steps forward, both for reducing unnecessary burden on the prison system, and with helping convicts reform themselves. Reducing the penalties for drug related crimes will allow the police to deal with more important crimes, rather than having to deal with some a kid who got caught with weed. Offering the Halfway Back Program would also help former convicts re-adjust to life in normal society, along with keeping them away from the influence of less repentant criminals. Offering incentives to go through rehab will hopefully help motivate convicts to attend, allowing them to learn useful skills. The goal of prison shouldn't be just to keep criminals away from places where they can reoffend, but to help turn them into productive members of society. Also mentioned was training to recognize implicit racial and ethnic bias within various members of law-enforcement. This doesn't mention any type of training to reduce this bias, but being aware of it and recognizing it when it does show up will likely have a positive effect for those who would be affected by it. Lastly, giving judges the power to sentence jail or probation instead of prison, which makes sense for minor and/or first time offenses. - Green002
I don't truly a 100% agree too lessening the sentence,what is exactly the point of signing these bills? Putting innocent lives in jeopardy for money due to our own greed and excessive spending habits that has led to debt. Especially if they are using federal money to pay for these things. Theres so many people out here on jobs and in schools and they cant even get the resources they need because there is just isn't enough money or the budget is to low. I'm not saying it is a bad idea. I just believe we should be focusing more on the people out here who are doing what they are suppose to and arent being sent to jail or prison. Yet they don't have the money to do the things they love.I know everyone males mistakes but you the crime you have to do the time. Letting people off easily isn't going to do anything, its just going to put a person who needs help and counseling or guidance back out in the same situation they start her phone so that leaves them to do the same thing and once you're in the system the government made it extremely hard for you to do anything to improve your situation if you wanted to its just going to save the government money. What about the safety for the ones out here Who were effected by the decisions they make.ofh002
I agree that lessening the sentence is not the best thing to do, but the prison population is out of control. From what I read most of the prisoners being released were in prison for non-violent crimes (such as possession of a controlled substance.) I think drug offenders should get early release only if they go to a rehabilitation place. I 100% agree with you that we should be focusing more on the civilians who do what they are supposed to do. Letting criminals off easily definitely isn’t helping anyone out, especially since they probably won’t seek the help they need when they return to civilian life. Scuba004
It is extremely upmost important to know the difference between Criminology and Criminal Justice. Most people believe or assume they are the same and in some ways they are but you need to be able to fully understand the difference between the two. You don't want to be that person someday and someone asks you or it shows up on a exam and you don't know. When you think of Criminology think of the crime it self and the sentence that person who has committed or violated the law and how long they should face. The crimes can vary from rape,domestic violence, assault,battery, drug possession, murder ect. It can be along any of those lines. Most States have different views on how much time a person might get. For example a person who commits murder in one state might receive life in prison and in a different state they might receive the death penalty. Or some places might have the same procedures or sentencing another place has. They can be similar or different it just depends. Criminal Justice is more along the lines of when did the crime happen and how was it discovered. You also have to ask yourself how was the situation handled. Both criminology and criminal justice are one. I say that because there are so many great job opportunities and benefits you can get and you are helping the citizens and communities around you. Law enforcement are our heroes. They do so many great things and save so many lives. Ofh002
I think the movement to lower prison population is good. Yes, there are some people that should be in prison for a life time, but for those that did a harmless crime, i believe that they should be able to get a second chance. With the prison population dropping around 10 percent, i believe that is a positive outcome, with more positive directions, then i would think there would be more positive outcomes. bball001
I agree the lowering of the prison population is a good idea. People who are committing non-violent crimes should not be sentenced as harshly as those committing violent crimes. The punishment needs to match the crime. Only time will tell if this will work or not, but the governor is on the right path to at least be acknowledging that there needs to be a change.mommy004
I do not believe we can ever have enough reform. Our laws, policies, habits are not perfect, not even close. Reform can be positive and negative but we will never know until we have a trial and error period. Reforms are important to learn how to be better and how to improve what already exists. Reading the article I am so excited for trauma- recovery centers, and the plan to decrease prison population by %25 in 10 years, that sounds amazing. Could there be drawbacks? Is this going to affect jobs in the Criminal Justice System? Maybe. But if we don't try to improve than the complaining about our current situation will never end. I always think we have room for improvement or to readdress how we are currently handling situations. The point is change is needed to set motion future ideas and reform. Marras002
Focusing on the larger crimes is a good thing, but sometimes getting away with little crimes can lead to those people committing a larger crime because they think they got away with it. With the prison rate dropping around 10 percent, i do think that is good in a way because some people should get a shorter sentence then what they have gotten in the past. But, i do think that we need to be careful on the leniency because their could be more crimes that are committed when they get out because they sentence was not very long. I think this could be a good thing or a bad thing. Yes it is good that the prison population has decreased, but are we just giving criminals a get out of jail free card essentially? I do think it is a good proposal and it is a controversy that should be talked about. bball002
I understand that each case is different, and the judge should do what they think is best for the circumstances. But the problem we have with the prison system right now is that we are treating people that are sent to prison like animals and that is exactly how they behave when they are in prison and when they are released. While I get why people want certain sentences reduced so the prisons are overcrowded, how about we do what prisons were made for. To make people learn they did something wrong and that they have to learn they will keep going back if they do not correct their behavior. Prison is supposed to rehabilitate people and change them and their behaviors so they don't go back. Maybe the government should try that and then maybe we don't have to worry about overcrowded prisons. hotfox003
I completely agree with this. While their are some people incarcerated that should not even be considered to be brought back into society, for example those in for violent crimes such as murder, rape, etc. Those incarcerated for long periods of time convicted of drug offences should really not even be in prison in the first place in my opinion. The prison system just 'rots' the person by having them sit in a prison cell without offering any opportunities to overcome their drug problem. They should just be sent straight to a rehabilitation facility instead because this would definitely lower the chances that the person re offends. CAE004
I like these ideas of each case being different but in my eyes a lot of non violent crimes should not get so much time on their sentence. And the idea of building rehabilitation centers for offenders to go to is a great idea and a great alternative for someone who doesn't need to be in prison for a small crime. Our country definitely needs to cut down on the amount of people we imprison. Petty crimes shouldn't get very much time in my opinion. Gym003
It is a well known fact that minorities are arrested and incarcerated at alarming rates in this country. Add in the police brutality that has been all over the media lately, I think the governor is making a very wise choice to address the way minorities are handled by the criminal justice system here in Illinois. The War On Drugs caused a large amount of people to become incarcerated in America. Which has proven to be a huge burden on society. Money that is being used to house these non-violent offenders could be better spent on rehabilitative services. These individuals although, they should be punished for breaking the law do not deserve such harsh penalties. So I think both the prisoner and society would benefit with lighter sentences for drug dealers. The focus needs to be geared towards more serious offenses such as rapes and murders. It is a shame when a drug dealer is sentenced to more time than someone committing a rape. I am in support of you do the crime you do the time, but the punishment handed down needs to match the crime committed. Someone selling drugs should be given the chance to return to society and given the tools to be productive citizens in the community. If the system does not start trying to work on rehabilitating instead of punishing the prisons will continue to be full. But for certain changes need to be made to the criminal justice system in this nation, we can't continue to do the same things over and over again when they are shown to not be successful and expect different results. mommy004
Even though I do not agree with a lot of what Governor Rauner says, I agreed with what he has done recently. I think it is wonderful that he is making it mandatory that officers need to learn how to handle the different ethnic groups, because that will help with the police/public relations. I also think that it is a smart decision that Rauner made to reduce some of the ridiculous drug offense charges. Not only that, but the fact that he is proposing the building of programs to help those who have been victims of crimes and also those who have committed the crime. With both of those problematic areas mended, the overcrowded prison population will, more likely than not, significantly decline. Rayder004
I agree, making it mandatory that officers receive more specialized training with ethnic groups will severely aid their public relations with the general public. Alongside that, lowering incarceration rates will be viewed as a major stepping stone towards getting Illinois on par with other great states.-Ghost143
I agree with Governor Rauner's efforts to try to reduce the prison population in Illinois. I agree with the recommendation to have police officers, judges, and lawyers trained on their implicit and ethnic biases. This will definitely help with restoring as well as strengthening a trust between the criminal justice system and the citizens. Reducing the sentencing qualifications for felony drug crimes is another recommendation that I agreed with simply because I feel that people should really not even be incarcerated for drug related crimes. They need help to get over their drug addiction and sitting in a prison cell does not help them to rehabilitate. I also really liked the bill passed by the senate to create new trauma recovery centers crime victims and incentives for inmates to rehabilitate themselves. I think the criminal justice system seems to get too caught up in the act of the crime and have their only focus on putting the bad guy in prison without considering any ways to further help those affected by the criminal act. By allowing incentives for these inmates to rehabilitate themselves, this will reduce the chances of recidivism by the inmate. CAE004
Governor Bruce Rauner did a great job producing the recommendations. These are just a few of the steps we need to take to improve the criminal justice system. Although I think the recommendation of training to recognize racial/ ethnic bias is great, I think almost all of these law-enforcement officers, judges, and lawyers treat everyone fairly and it is just a few people who ruin reputations. It would be difficult and take a while to collect accurate data on race and ethnicity to be able to see how minorities are affected by this bias. The results of these reports will be interesting because it seems everyone has different ideas on where we are at on this problem. Restoration of the Halfway Back Program is a great idea that will allow for the reduction of prison population rates. The Halfway Back Program can also help give treatment for those who need it. The criminal justice system needs to create more rehabilitation programs to make sure past offenders stay out of prison. We need more recommendations like these to better improve the criminal justice system, but the Illinois Senate takes a long time and hardly agrees when it comes to passing these recommendations. As the article says, the commission submitted 14 recommendations last year but only two bills have been signed into laws based off of them. Scuba004
I think that this article contains a lot of new policies that will greatly improve policing in Illinois. The fist policy mentioned, training for and recognition of implicit racial and/or ethnic bias, will help improve relations between police and minorities in communities because once biases are recognized, they can be corrected. The next recommendations, reducing minimum sentences for felonies other than class 4 felonies reducing sentencing classifications for felony drug crimes, and limiting the maximum term of mandatory supervised release to 18 months for Class X, Class 1 and Class 2 felonies, and restoring the Halfway Back program will help to greatly reduce overcrowding in Illinois jails and prisons. The Illinois Senate also recently passed a bill to create new crime victims trauma-recovery centers. This bill also includes incentives for inmates to rehabilitate themselves and gives judges the power to sentence someone to probation or jail time instead of prison, if the judge deems it a more effective punishment. I think that these plans are a good foundation to work off of when trying to improve the policing in our state. They will help to continue the decline of incarcerated individuals in our state and help to improve police-community relations. ekt004
Governor Bruce Rauner seems to be attempting to make the states criminal justice system more efficient by pushing these recommendations and changes forward. These changes will help to lower incarceration rates in the following years. Lowering some of the restrictions and punishments for illegal drug distribution will help severally. Furthermore, trying to eliminate more bias between officers and different ethnic groups will largely aid in public relations. Along side that, Governor Rauner has also pushed for quicker release times for certain felony charges with supervision. Currently our prison system is packed full and is a big whole in our state budget. I am personally looking forward to some of these changes and what they might mean for the future of our law enforcement and correctional departments.
Incarceration rates are very high. That has finally became more of a social issue and there has been actions to help it. The incarceration rates have dropped about 9% and that rates will hopefully continue you to increase. Some people do not belong in jail for extended periods of time and some not at all. First offenses and minor offenses don't always need jail. People make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes and they shouldn't have their life thrown away for it. Once you have a criminal record, it's near impossible to find a decent job to where you can make a living. This could happen at a young age and youll whole life ahead of you will be gone. Punishments need to be made or people will continue with their actions. You shouldn't make a punishment that people can not overcome. The prisons also are not the best place to get better. Some people have issues and if they commit a crime, maybe they couldn't help it. Prison wouldn't be the place they belong. They need an institution or a facility where they can receive treatment and become better. Their is no point of wasting a life in jail if they don't deserve to be there. Mustang003
Prisons are getting very many people and people who caught with drugs shouldn’t be in the same incarcerations with murders. There are many people who are getting arrested just for drugs who are going to prison and aren’t getting any better as a person. People who get arrested for drugs should have to go to a rehabilitation rather than wasting their whole life in prison. Especially if this type of crime was done when you were young. People make mistakes but, instead of ruining their whole life by sentencing them to 30 years in prison they should go get rehab and get help to become a better person. Now with Governor Rauner pushing for the criminal justice system to have these recommendations and changes. These types of changes will push for lower incarceration rates in the following years. I’m hoping to see some of these changes happen fast because are prison systems are packed and can’t take much more crowding. It seems that the state of Illinois is on the right track. CRC100
I see where you are coming from about the drug problem but when you have a person who is selling meth and get busted, they should be sent to prison. The judge won't give them years that they shouldn't have gotten. Once in prison then they can have help so once they are out back with society they can stay clean. Pie004
The number of people in prison for drug charges is very high in today's society. Today most people go to prison either because they have possession of drugs or they are distributing them. If you look at statistics of why people are in prison you will notice that a lot of people go to prison for just a drug offense. So most prisons are filled with people who put the drugs on the street and people who try to make a living from selling. With Governor Rauner making the plan to try to reduce the prison rate by 25 percent is a very good idea. He is trying to repair a prison system that has been broken for many years. Putting people who are in prison for more than 10 years for selling drugs is a waste of space in our prison system. Take them out and put them in a rehabilitation center and try to hope they won't go to drugs again. While in a rehabilitation teach them and get them ready for real life situations they might have to deal with once they are ready to leave. Help them get a job and help them try to live a regular life. DC004
I agree with you that trying to reduce the prison rate by 25% is a good idea. I think that with the changing in sentencing times for drug related and nonviolent offenses will help to prevent the rise of prison rates in the future. I also believe that sending people with drug offenses to a rehabilitation center is a much better idea than to send them to prison for extended periods. JAG001 / JAG002
The criminal justice system is a bit broken. Instead of letting it stay broken and act like nothing's wrong, changes are being made. The prison population has reduced 25% in the past 10 years. Rauner said they haven't met their goal yet, but as you can see they are making very good process at reaching it. The illinois senate has passed a bill to create new trauma-recovery centers for crime victims. This is such a good idea in many ways. You can go reduce the sentence of an inmate to help them get back in the real world. Except, once they are out, why would they not go back to their old ways. They won't be able to get the best job and will more than likely end up back doing exactly what go the min to jail in the first place. Not all inmates can get out of jail and get a better life. That's why they can now get help. If they need help this would be the place they can get it. The inmates will also receive incentives for going to the rehabilitation center. Mustang004
I think you have a really good perspective on this. Many convicted felons will not be able to find work, so there they will resort to their old ways of making money, such a trafficking. Rehabilitation programs will help the criminals to understand why their actions were wrong, and alternatives to problems they will face in the real world. Additionally, I am unsure if they should have to be given incentives to want to attend a rehabilitation center. If a criminal truly wants to clean up their act, then they should put in the effort without extra rewards, other than the reward of a better life at the end. Purple003
I agree with you. our current system is broken and flawed. It needs change. The only thing we can do is voice our opinions, and try to help bring about the change that we want to see. I like the idea of a new trauma-recovery center for crime victims. I think it will really help people get back into the world and be a part of society again. agentp002
Personally I would agree with Rauner's commission with these ideas. I think it is important to lower incarceration times as long as they are nonviolent offenses. Someone should not have to serve life in prison for having possession of drugs in my opinion. I also really like that fact that they want training to recognize racial and ethnic bias. This has seemingly grown as a problem in the criminal justice field, at least in my eyes. I would like to see these "hate crimes" go down in numbers. The bill to create new rehab centers for offenders would be great for them. It could for one actually help them kick addictions and two avoid jail time altogether. I feel like this will actually help offenders get better and not commit crimes again. To me it seems like Rauner has some of the right ideas that the Criminal justice system needs he has passed 15 criminal justice bills. I already agree with the ones in this article so hopefully some real changes start coming to make our local and state Criminal justice systems better. Gym003
I enjoyed reading about some of the reform ideas for the criminal justice system in Illinois. The idea of lowering prison sentences for drug related offenses is something I completely agree with. The prisons are currently over populated in most instances, and harsh sentences for drug related offenses are a main cause of it. I like that a focus of these reforms is to help train officers in recognizing racial biases. Especially considering what recently happened in Chicago, this is a great route to take in the state's criminal justice reform. Also, along with the reform of sentencing for drug related crime was a bill to create rehab centers for offenders. Not only will this help people kick there addictions who couldn't otherwise, but it could also help to further reduce jail time for these offenders. I also appreciate that Rauner has acknowledged that there goals have not been reached, that they have made good progress but there is still work that needs to be done. JAG001 / JAG002
I think this is very important. In order for everyone to be treated fairly, and be viewed as innocent until proven guilty, it is crucial that no one is biased. It is not fair, and it is unethical for law enforcements, judges, prosecutors, etc. to be biased towards a specific race, gender, or ethnicity. If someone is biased the only ethical thing to do is remove themselves from the situation because it is impossible to treat someone fairly if you already have a biased opinion before you know the issue at hand. Additionally, I think it is good that some prisoners are being released for petty crimes, especially when they have already paid their dues and served more than enough time in prison for their offenses. On the other hand, I hope the releases do not get out of hand. I think everyone who commits a crime should be punished for their actions, especially when they have been given multiple chances to clean up their act. If an individual is released early, I think it is important to watch them closely to ensure safety. Furthermore, I think the rehabilitation option is wonderful because not all offenders can clean up their act on their own; some require additional help other than just a prison sentence. If they are willing to clean up their act, we should give them a fair chance, but we must also consider the safety of those who have not committed any acts of crime. Purple003
I agree with the top half of your comment. However, rehabilitation can be tricky especially when you use the word "fair" so many times. It is very nice to give everyone an equal shot and I would love for the world to be like that, but the world never has, isn't, and will never be fair. That's life. If you give someone a chance, then the next guy has to be given a chance. Because if he didn't that would be unfair. Then the next guy wants it. Can't say no, otherwise that's unfair. Soon rehabilitation costs go through the roof and nothing changes. There would have to be a strong system to implement "fairness" into any kind of institution. The people were unfair to the non-convicted people outside some how or another that's why they are there. But hey, it's just my opinion. Food for thought. USA003
It’s encouraging to hear that we have reduced our prison population by almost 10%, but the thing I liked most about this article was reading about are we are putting a system in place to rehabilitate victims. We talk so much about how offenders need to be rehabilitated, but it seems like we’ve forgotten about the victims sometimes. Being the victim of a crime can be a life-altering event. People need things like counseling and support in order to restore their quality of life. As for the offenders, I wished the article had shared some examples of what the incentives will be. I think it’s a good idea n order to get more offenders into rehab, I just hope it remains as effective as it has shown to be. I wouldn’t want it to just become a formality in order for them to get the incentive. I’m happy to hear about the positive changes Illinois is making to its Criminal Justice system. It’s gives me hope that maybe Illinois is on the right track with something for once. RustyPete001
Prisons are getting very many people and people who caught with drugs shouldn’t be in the same incarcerations with murders. There are many people who are getting arrested just for drugs who are going to prison and aren’t getting any better as a person. People who get arrested for drugs should have to go to a rehabilitation rather than wasting their whole life in prison. Especially if this type of crime was done when you were young. People make mistakes but, instead of ruining their whole life by sentencing them to 30 years in prison they should go get rehab and get help to become a better person. Now with Governor Rauner pushing for the criminal justice system to have these recommendations and changes. These types of changes will push for lower incarceration rates in the following years. I’m hoping to see some of these changes happen fast because are prison systems are packed and can’t take much more crowding. It seems that the state of Illinois is on the right track.CRC002
I agree in our prison system we have drug offenders who need rehabilitation in the same cells as murderers. It is great that Illinois is making the move to create a better system to deal with drug offenders rather than ruining their lives by just tossing them in jail and not providing them with the means to break their habits. BIke004
I agree with you. There are many non-violent offenders that are being put into high-security facilities alongside murderers and rapists. Instead of punishing, the route should be more rehabilitative. I'm not saying we should baby criminals, but each person and each crime must be approached differently. agentp001
Since the war on drugs many families have been torn apart because of the harsh charges for drug offenses. Many times people were being thrown in jail for drugs longer than violent criminal offenders and left there to rot instead of being rehabilitated. I think that it is great that Illinois is going to put forth an effort to lessen the time spent in prison for drug offenses and creating more rehabilitative programs. With doing this Illinois is also making an effort to make people in the criminal justice system undergo training to help them pinpoint signs of having an implicit bias and how to avoid having an implicit bias towards a group of people. These are both good things to do in our state to try and reduce the amount of inmates in our prison system and to get them back and functioning in the real world. The training on implicit bias will also help us have a well trained and informed police force working our streets. Bike001
I also like that fact that they are moving froward with rehabilitation. Drug addicts need help and should not be treated like violent criminals. I also believe that the racial bias should be enforced because it would make the people who face racial problems feel more safe. coutinho004
I think you have a good point. Kids are growing up with one parent and the parent left out is struggling as a single parent to provide for their family and also support the loved one that is incarcerated.sly2003
In my opinion, the racial and ethnic basis should not be recommended but enforced. It is no secret that African Americans have it the hardest in this country. They get more sentencing time than a white American even though they both do the same crime. Meanwhile my opinion on drugs, like marijuana, people should not be serving harsh sentences for non-violent crimes. Being in prison with inmates that have murdered, raped, and many other violent acts make it worse for them. Being surround by bad people all day very day for however long they are in prison makes them into those people because they have to survive. Drugs are an addiction and people who are addicts need rehab to help them in society rather than being in prison. A young man or women should not have their life ruined over drugs and get sent to jail. When they get out, it is hard for them to find jobs and most fall right back into those habits of taking drugs. coutinho004
I was able over the summer to go into the Federal Prison in Pekin, IL. While in there I learned how the prison was helping the inmates transition into society by having an area just for inmates who have a year or less. This showed how the prison is making changes to help make sure the inmates stay clean once out. Pie004
Taking steps to improve a problem, no matter how big or how small that problem may be, is a good thing in my mind and a good step forward. Being able to get both Democrats and Republicans to work toward a common goal of improving the criminal justice system is an even greater thing. It is sad to see anyone get arrested, tried, and convicted. But the easiest way to reverse that system is just don't do it. Learn and have some common sense and some self discipline. You know its illegal to steal, use drugs, or even shoot at another. That may come out as rather blunt, but its true. Whether you like it or not, its illegal. if you don't like it do something to get it legalized. Don't just say, "The drinking age 21 is way too high. I can handle a drink and I'm 17. So I'm just gonna drink anyway." Well, when you get arrested for a DUI or something else, don't complain and cry. you knew the risks. you made a bad judgement call. My taxes that I pay should be to fix the roads in my city. Not to try to fix your crybaby attitude. I'm all for coaching and therapy when it is genuinely needed. Not to give you a "Get out of jail free" card. USA003
I don't really think it's enough, there's a lot of people from prison who does the same thing when they're released; but there are some who also come out of prison who changed or wants to change. Also a lot of prisoners are locked up for petty drug charges. For an example, there are prisoners locked up for marijuana; Marijuana isn't a hard drug in my opinion. Alcoholics should get more time than potheads honestly because a lot of alcoholics do a lot of crazy things when they're drunk. When have you heard of someone going to prison for doing something dumb and the cause is marijuana? Drug dealers are getting longer sentences than some criminals who did actual crimes. Kodak003
I believe that these recommendations are a good step for helping the criminal justice system. The step to lower felony sentences is a good step to help lower the amount of people who are locked up in our prisons. This will also help with the amount of money that we spend on these prisons and their inmates. I believe that having the criminal justice system go through racial training is a good recommendation as well. Having changes like these is a good step to helping improve the criminal justice system and have it change as people in society change as well. Changes like these will allow our criminal justice system and society to work together better. hawkshockey004
Helping our criminal justice system work better in conjunction with society would be a great improvement. Once of the biggest problems on society is the "dead weight" prisons can often be considering the inmates don't have the ability or opportunity to help out and contribute to society. Furthermore, with more reforms like this we can hopefully see the prison population continue to lower while hopefully crime rates don't rise too much in comparison. Ghost004
In regards to the police community and all that involves it, this article is a great read. It is a fantastic thing to see people are reaching out and talking about the many issues within the criminal justice system and all that encompass it. One of the subjects being mentioned is the bias that police officers, judges, and many more in the criminal justice system have when dealing with criminals. They want to be able to recognize the racial and ethnic bias. I am not so sure that reducing the minimum sentences will be able to change the rate of incarceration or even the recidivism. Some people may believe that they will be able okay to go to prison for a crime that they previously would not have even considered. The benefits might outweigh the consequences. Rauner said in a statement, "This report is another important step in repairing our broken criminal justice system and safely reducing the prison population by 25 percent over 10 years." This rate seems a little unrealistic. I want to hope that in doing the things mentioned in this article, but only time will tell if what they are implementing will help. agentp001
After going through and reading the article twice, I seem to understand more of what the Illinois Criminal Justice System is trying to do. Prisons are becoming over-crowded. The people that are being thrown in to prison seem to follow a pattern. This is a prime example of just how prejudice and biased people can be towards those that commit criminal acts. Not only should the criminal justice system try and reduce the minimum sentences for felonies, it should also try and take care of it's people. There are people who are being thrown into prison for drug abuse, and they should really get the help and care that they need. If a person who is a drug addict is thrown into prison, and they do not get help, they 9 times out of 10 will resort back to their old ways. They will go back to using, they will go back to stealing, and raping, and murdering; and they will return to the prisons in much worse shape than after being released the first time. Governor Rauner is pushing to change the Criminal Justice System and wants to see a brighter future for all; one that does not involve spending life in prison. agentp001
Todays criminal justice and prison systems are a major issue in modern society. They have been a huge burden on not only the taxpayer but also to the law enforcement members who must keep them in check. Thanks to Gov. Bruce Rauner, many new reforms and recommendations have been put forward. This includes lowering the penalties for certain felony charges and by helping prisoners get out earlier. Also, he has pushed new policies that help convicts once they are released. Since a large portion of the changes have been made, we have seen prison populations drop almost 10% since February of 2015.-Ghost004
It's nice to see that something is finally being done with sentencing reform. It's been a long time and coming for the justice system to take a step in rehabilitation instead of just locking people of for years and not offering any help to better people just locking them up and forgetting about them. It will save tax payers money on prison's and jails and the money can be used for more important things. All in all these are good changes. Hopefully these changes will go into effect soon. It's good to see people taking notice. Sly.003
Illinois is going in a better direction by placing less penalties on those who mess up in our society by less harsh penalties will give opportunities for those who make a simple mistake to turn their lives around. Having alternative programs for these people could teach them how to correct their behavior or to help the victim their crime may have effected. I agree with the recommendation to have police officers, judges, and lawyers trained on their implicit and ethnic biases. This will definitely help with restoring as well as strengthening a trust between the criminal justice system and the citizens. Reducing the sentencing qualifications for felony drug crimes is another recommendation that I agreed with simply because I feel that people should really not even be incarcerated for drug related crimes. They need help to get over their drug addiction and sitting in a prison cell does not help them to rehabilitate. BMW004
I think we have similar views. As I stated on your comment you posted on the video about Obama's effect on our criminal justice system, I agree. I'm glad that we have separation of powers to allow states to have different laws then the nation. Which allows Governors like Rauner, to make laws for the people even if we can't have it on a national level. I've always felt the same way about drug-related crimes. I feel if people want to do that then other shouldn't be punished for assisting them with doing it.EGM003
I am pleased to see that our governor is not only aware that our Criminal Justice System needs reform but he has taken steps to make that possible. By addressing the implicit racial and ethnic bias in our Criminal Justice System he is rebuilding the trust between the people and the government. This is a much-needed change! I have always thought that some sentences for drug crimes are too extensive. It’s about time that our laws start to reflect the changes of society’s views. The halfway back program is a great way to get back on track to Rehabilitation instead of Retribution. Its an incentive that will help reduce recidivism because it gives a second chance to those who deserve it. I believe giving that extra power to judges will help to ensure the process. EGM003
Lowering in Illinois the time an offense would have for people who commit a drug offense wouldn't be penalized for law enforcement this would give them more creative ways to deal with drug offenses. By reducing the prison population making it harder for individual's to get felony's this would reduce the harm done to different communities as they would have an easier time maintaining income as it would be more simple to get a job with no criminal record. Restorative Justice is a major part of the Governors proposal by getting crime victims the proper care and also rehabilitation criminals to better themselves for law enforcement the community is becoming a major part of policing. Also by giving judicial powers the right to choose if a offense will be criminalized by probation, jail or prison this won't label a person as a failed human being that will not be able to change but gives that person the chance to make things better in their life, the communities, and also for the people or person they may have offended. Eagle001
ReplyDeleteI'm with you on people will find more creative ways to deal drugs because if they aren't getting in trouble what is stopping them from selling more and more ? This will end up getting out of hand on selling drugs. Not every drug that is sold should be punished by prison but not everyone should just be able to "walk". Pie001
DeleteI definitely agree with your stance on this. taking away felonies for drug offenses would be unrealistic but this new way of handling it would work wonders in my opinion. it would show drug users and dealers that just because there will be possibly reduced sentences doesn't mean that they can just get away with the crimes they're committing 24/7. RM001
DeleteI do agree with what you said. Restorative Justice is probably more important as being detained as it actually teaches the inmates how to change their behavior and to become a benefactor to society. Rayder004
DeletePeople need to be punished for their actions or why would they stop? Actions need consequences or people will keep making the same choices. Yes, their needs to be lighter sentences on certain things, but you cant take away certain punishments. Mustang003
DeleteBy having a minor offense for drugs for officers doing investigations on drug related crimes they wont have to have such extensive evidence as they do at this current point in time as if a person is found quality of a drug offense they won't have such major penalties as they would now. With this being said with police officers in court they won't have such a burden of proof providing quilt therefore this will save officers investatigion time for other major crimes. With Illinois new crime reform which will also save invesgations time is tacking on the location of offenders when they commit a crime that is determined to be more serious within a certain distance of a giving them more options to choose from when deciding the punishment for a giving crime as this will be less serious because of the giving penalties with offenses near school senior citizens home or other public buildings. Reducing the prison population down from the current point will allow more money into the law enforcement agencies allowing for more extensive research into making sure the offender who committed the crime reminds to be the one who is charged with the crime and that the more extensive technology the state has that we don't charge an innocent person with a crime that person wasn't involved with. Eagle002
ReplyDeleteThe recommendations produced in this report can be used by the criminal justice system to help create a more efficient running law enforcement system. A steady decline of the prison population can prove helpful to law enforcement as well as the government, as they would not have to pay to keep many prisoners of petty crimes in jail. The creation of new trauma-recovery centers can prove very useful as helpful safe places for victims recovering from any sort of crime that was committed on them. Also, with judges having the power to sentence people to probation or just jail time instead of prison based on the individual and the crime they committed, it can help many people receive the mental health care they need that they would not receive in prison. The recommendations that have been placed before our governor, are changes that could bring us many steps forward in improving our criminal justice system as well as communities all at the same time. Overall these recommendations will be of great help to the community as it will allow victims to seek help if they need it, as well as allow people who have committed less serious crimes an alternative punishment to prison. Pack001
ReplyDeleteThis must create a more efficient system as this allows for the police to target crimes that are more harmful to communities. Having a smaller prison population would decrease the likelihood of spending a lot of unassay money on keeping prisons who shouldn't be behind bars locked away but by reducing we can spend it on what matters for law enforcement or important organizations in Illinois. The mental health feature of the new reform for criminal justice may help individuals to receive the help to not recidivism once they are out of the careful watchful eye of law enforcement. Eagle001
DeleteI think that the plans outlined in this article will greatly improve policing in Illinois. The programs to help recognize and counter racial and ethnic biases will help to greatly improve relations between police and minorities in their communities. The other programs that have been outlined will help to continue the decrease in prison population. I think that all of these policy changes will help to improve the state of policing in Illinois. EKT004
DeleteIt's good to see the see state government recognizing and mending the issues in high incarceration rates as well as a negative face of recidivism. I'm sure the federal funding to support the halfway programs and facilities won't prove to be too much of a problem to maintain. Hopefully we will begin seeing more reports of positive numbers when it comes to corrections, and I hope crime prevention follows suit. Although, I attended a panel discussing the position we are in terms of policing as well as resolutions, albeit in regards to racial issues. Just the local governments alone spoke on plans to focus primarily on improving the conditions of lower class zones and also programs to improve police-community relations. Perhaps this list of recommendations will serve as an example for everywhere to follow. JAY001
ReplyDeleteIt is very important for these recommendations to be taken seriously by the government. These recommendations would help the criminal justice system take huge steps forward with not only helping to keep their citizens safer but also to help keep people out of prison who have no business being there. The public image can also be helped positively by these recommendations and the building of the halfway programs and buildings will help the public, and help the system better serve and protect its citizens. The services provided by the programs and facilities will be of huge importance to many victims of crimes, as well as the criminals who need the help from the programs as well. Pack001
DeleteI agree with you, JAY001. I think that high incarceration rates are an issue now, and believe that it will continue to be an issue in the future, especially if we do not take measures to improve these statistics. It is good to hear that they are finally realizing and trying to come up with this, as we have seen a decline from 2015 by about 9%, and I am hopeful that we will continue to see this decline throughout the criminal justice system.
Deletegh_blackhawks001
I agree that the incarceration rates are very high. They have gone down about 9% and that number should keep increasing as the population in the jail shall decrease. Some people make mistakes and they shouldn't have a serious punishment for a first offense for something not all that bad. Yes, their needs to be punishments so they won't do it again, but don't make a punishment that they can never overcome. Mustang004
DeleteHopefully Illinois government can stay on top of these recommendations particularly for the sake of recidivism rates and the positive change for inmates being released from prison or jail. What I feel is most important in this article is the potential to remove the harsh flaws of mandatory sentencing. Giving judges more discretionary powers will improve the personal and economic power of both the inmates getting released or properly punished as well as even the state, in the long run. There's no denying that some people are receiving high sentences with no room for personal progress, for doing something stupid once when they were younger. I have high hopes that criminal justice systems will continue to develop in a positive manner with commissions like these as the flagships. Hopefully there's no concerns about the funding for these recommendations, and that taking the necessary steps to completing these changes go smoothly and quickly. The reduced rates in jail and in prison are directly related to the reduced stress of the facilities and faculty that run them, which I think think the long run can also relieve financial stress all around as well. Good job, Illinois. JAY002
ReplyDeleteReducing recidivism rates was a popular topic in one of my previous classes. But in this case reducing sentences on certain classifications of crime seems to work by gradually helping prison populations decline. I also like the idea that a judge, who clearly understands the effects of his actions, can sentence an individual to jail or even probation instead of prison. Probation is not the cheapest or easiest method when it comes to controlling the deviant acts of another person. So we resort to jails and prisons where we can isolate offenders from mainstream society. In the past it might have been easier to just lock an individual up and throw away the key just to call it a day. But now, that type of decision making is coming back with a negative after effect of overpopulation and lack of funds/resources. I believe that reducing the sentencing on certain crimes is not the worst idea, but it may cause offenders to think less about the consequences of their wrongful actions. The best thing to do is encourage community based policing as much as possible in hopes that people slowly stop committing any kind of crime. Bry001
ReplyDeleteI agree with this all the way. It starts with the community basically. It has always easier to lock them up then to have to deal with them pretty much. Trust is a big issue and it plays a huge role in this as well. I think if the community started to trust law enforcement and realize they aren't just "harassing" you the less they may want to committ the crimes. Ciaccio002
Deletereducing the sentencing for drug related crimes would greatly reduce the number of inmates each prison has. Most prisons have large number of inmates that are in their on drug related charges. This could help the state save more money or even make more money by using fines. The justice system could find other alternatives to get these people the help they need. Some would have to go to rehabilitation or we could find them other alternatives. I hope that this greatly helps the state and more bills get passed that help thing go smoothly.
ReplyDeleteEVO001
It would definitely reduce the population in prison throughout the state and also show support to society by the justice system that they care. It would also save money but not a whole lot of money because the justice system would just end up using the money left over for non important things or for the wrong things. But we will definitely see how successful this idea is. -NIKE001
DeleteI agree with you but then again I also don't. You made a great point when you said it can save more money but then again if they let individuals who are in there for drug charges out with fines. They might let those fines pile up and then nobody is making any money really. Those people aren't going to always pay those fines and they will have a harder time finding a job of that is on there records. I also don't the think people on drug related issues should stay in prison either I think they should save those spots for people who commit unforgivable crimes. They should he sent to like rehab or placed on house arrest or harsh probation for a while. They should have like someone who checks on them all the time. But you did make great points! Ofh002
DeleteI'm excited to see the positive impact this has. I think a lot of people worry this will increase drug habits but I personally think this just allows for more programs to be implemented and more jobs in this system while also reducing and already overcrowded prison population. Prison space should be for the most heinous crimes. Marras002
DeleteOver the past years. The criminal justice system has been trying to reduce incarceration rates and recidivism rates and as a result of that it sort of worked and it sort of didn't. But judging by what the criminal justice system is trying to do now, which is reducing sentences on crimes. I personally think won't work. Because if the system do reduce sentence on crimes, it will basically tell the criminals that the crimes they commit won't be harsh. But I guess if you think about it, it kind of does help bring down crime because it shows that the system doesn't want to hurt people and just lock them up and shows that the system wants to help criminals find a much more positive alternative to get the things that they want. But having new people in charge who understands the different situations that people go through and having that right person that knows how to deal with an criminal appropriately. Could definitely help this idea of reducing sentences on crimes and could eventually fix the criminal justice system throughout the whole United States. -NIKE001
ReplyDeleteI think what they are trying to work on is the overcrowding issuses that have been plaguing most all prisons. By abolishing the mandatory minimums on minor drug offenses and replacing them with alternative programs first rather than charging them with lets say a felony that causes them to keep being repeat offenders because they aren't able to get a job or government housing because of that record following them. I don't think it will make people think that they can get away with whatever crime they committed with a less harsher form of punishment I think it will make them see that judges and even law enforcement want to help them get out of a life of crime. Ciaccio001
DeleteI agree that small sentences could seem like a joke to a criminal, but instead of being locked up in jail they could also get sent to a rehabilitation center. If they get sent to rehab instead of prison, they are more likely to put their life of crime behind them. Using rehabilitation centers as forms of punishment can be so beneficial to America. zmw001
DeleteThat's so true I agree! With you and everyone who had replied. Overcrowding is becoming issues. More riots and fights among inmates are taken place. Also there are people out here Who commit worse crimes and there isn't any room for them in prison. This will save money but I don't think of will help the chances of someone not commiting a crime once again when they are released. Alot of times rehabilition doesnt work they will finish the program and then go back to what they were doing before because they have became wrapped around it. Ofh002
DeleteTo be completely honest I am not very surprised at all how bad the Chicago criminal justice system is. I find it funny how this never was a big issue until Rauner was elected. Suddenly it’s his fault Chicago is a big department, not as big as New York or other bigger city departments, but it’s still pretty big. From what I read Rauner is trying to save money and cut down on non-violent prison terms. From what I have seen about Illinois politics and spending, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Saving money is in our state’s best interest. And considering how messed up our state has been for awhile, I know our state needs to get smarter and stronger. Shite, some people live better in prisons, where everything is given to them, than on the outside. It is very expensive to keep someone fed and provide living quarters for them. Not only that but guards have to be hired and you got to give the inmates something to do. Or they go crazy or plot escape. Or both.
ReplyDeleteThat was Paddle001
DeleteThe thing though is that in some prisons inmates can work to earn money so then they can buy different items. This helps them stay busy and gives them the feeling of having a purpose even though they are in prison. Pie002
DeleteI think Illinois is heading in the right direction with these recommendations. The incarceration rates for minor drug offenses and even first time drug offenses are way too high. Lowering these offenses gives law enforcement and judges the ability to find alternative programs for these people instead of sending them straight to prison for an ounce. I like that something is finally being done about this problem. Prison shouldn’t be the only options for these people. You figure that the cost to keep one inmate is prison is well into the thousands a year, by knocking down the mandatory minimums for drugs it would save the state quite a bit of money. Other treatment options are a lot cheaper in the long run. Also, bringing back the discretionary power to the judges could help tremendously. Reducing prison population will help reduce the stress that these penal institutions have now with the overcrowding. I just hope that a lot more changes come to the criminal justice system now with everyone that is backing the changes. Ciaccio001
ReplyDeleteYou aren’t kidding, Illinois has been going down the wrong path for a very long time. We need to save/ not spend money on stupid shite. My goodness. All the wasteful spending that has been happening for years. Rauner is trying to cut it down. Thank God. Illinois was going on a downward spiral, it still is don’t get me wrong, we are just pulling up. I don’t know if we can pull out of the spiral fast enough. But hopefully cutting down on wasteful spending will help. Paddle001
DeleteIllinois is going in a better direction by placing less pentalities on those who mess up in our society by less harsh pentalities will give opuritines for those who make a simple mistake to turn their lives around. Having alternative programs for these people could teach them how to correct thier behavior or to help the victim their crime may have effected. This is allowing for better communities tires as this is part of the restorstive justice process that is part of elimiteing people from more then just criminals. Eagle001
DeleteIt's nice to see that something is finally being done about the problems within the criminal justice system in Illinois. Bringing back "halfway housing" for those getting out is a great idea. It is a great way to help those that have been in awhile adjust to life on the outside. Also implementing the "victim trama centers" is a great idea. There really isn't much help on both sides of the fences. Inmates getting out lack the help they need to get back on their feet since they are being charged with felonies for minor drug offenses which in turns ruins them getting a job anywhere and most government ran housing like section 8 or PHA. Leading them back to the same life that got them locked up in the first place. Things seem to be heading in the right direction with Rauner lets hope he keeps it up and keeps making the changes that are needed. Ciaccio002
ReplyDeleteIt is nice to see some new changes within the system. Halfway houses I think was a very good idea to help stop recidivism. I think the victim trauma centers may last for a very long time because there are a lot of victims who could use that extra help getting through their issues. I totally agree with you on the fact that their isn't much help when offenders get out because they have no guidance to how survive the pressure of not getting a job or certain benefits with a criminal background. Yes lets do hope Rauner does his job correctly and continue to improve the criminal justice system. -NIKE002
Deletei do agree that the justice system needed some changes. Rauner is doing some wonderful things to revamp this states systems. RM002
DeleteI'm glad to see the criminal justice system, continuing to come up with new ideas of how to fix all the racial bias and other negative discretionary and also reduce populations in prisons. Because its coming to a point where no matter who you are, whether your white, black, straight, gay. If you run into a problem with the law it will always be against you. Which is why it seems like the criminal justice system doesn't care who they hire anymore and then they wonder why the system is the way it is now, "so corrupted." But reducing the sentences on certain crimes I think may be good and bad because it could show support and guidance to positive things. Then it could be bad and show weakness and lack of support to help those get on their feet and do positive things. It could also be good to because they would have a person in position who understands people needs and desires and how to make peace with everyone in order to have a successful plan on reducing sentences. But all in all I think it won't last very long until they find a issue with this plan and then wind up trying to fix the problem with this plan. -NIKE002
ReplyDeleteReducing prison populations may help our society as a whole as this will lessen a lot of the damage that communities will not lose out on funding by using their taxes for individuals that are behind bars. Also, by having a lower prison population thgis will cause less stress on families as they won't have to find money for getting loved ones out on minor defenses this will, also allow for the police to use their discretion on which crimes are more important to pursue this is also all part of the restorative Justice process which will benefit society greatly. Eagle002
DeleteI agree, NIKE002, bias is an issue in the criminal justice system, although that as monumental as the mainstream media would argue. I hope that they will look more into the issue and work towards eliminating implicit racial and ethnic bias from law enforcement officers as well as lawyers and judges. If not addressed, I think we will see this problem continue, and potentially get worse as well. It is good to see them recognizing this issue.
Deletegh_blackhawks002
It is nice to see that the state is wanting to reducing the minimum sentences for each felony. At what age though do we let people who have never been in trouble before get away with selling drugs and have been for years but never had been caught? I don't want everyone who has made a mistake when younger to follow them. Prison shouldn't be the first place that someone ends up just because of a mistake (first offense). The Halfway Back Program is a great way to help try make sure that once out of the prison that everyone stays clean. All of these programs can have great feedback but everyone just needs to make sure that they are ready for the negative feedback also. Pie001
ReplyDeleteLike you mentioned, I think if someone got caught for the first time with drugs, they shouldn't have such a harsh sentencing. Yes, they do deserve some jail time but if it was a first time being in trouble with the law, why give them some sentence that could potentially ruin things for them in the long run. Clearly if someone didnt learn their lesson then all you can do is give them the sentence they deserve, but unfailingly giving someone who has no criminal record a dramatic sentencing won't help anything. Kt001
DeleteI agree with you 100%if you do a crime there will be a punishment but if you get caught 2 or more times doing the same crime they do deserve it. like you said first time offenders do not deserve to be ruined for a life time.steel001
DeleteI am glad to see that Governor Rauner is seeing that our criminal justice system isn't holding up to the standards that it should be. When it comes to drugs and crimes we are very worried about cannabis right now but the bigger problem is drugs like meth, crack, and heroin. Those are the drugs that need to have the harder charge. These are who needs help with the Halfway Back Program. This program can help get someone back on their feet and make sure that they are going to better their life. Pie002
ReplyDeleteI hundred percent agree with everything you say in this little post. Many cops are trying to still crack down on cannabis which they really should like you said they should be cracking down on more of the hard drugs. I also agree that programs like the Halfway Back Program can seriously start making a difference for people rather them just go to prison.CRC001
DeleteThis would help the already underfunded departments not have to deal with a lot of unless, small drug stops. If you have to arrest a dumb kid who has less than an eighth of weed and he has to spend 10 years in the slammer, he or she would miss out of a lot of stuff in his or her life. They wouldn’t get to figure anything out and the chance for recidivism would go up. But if the penalties for drugs where non-existent, that wouldn’t be the answer either. Lawmakers have to find the balance between deterrence and all out tyranny. Underfunded departments wouldn’t have to spend a lot of their money on busting small hauls and would have the money that would go to that go into more important things. Paddle002
ReplyDeleteReducing the sentencing time for some crimes seems to be an accepted idea if it helps with the overpopulation problem but I disagree with shortening the parole time. The recidivism rate is around two thirds so why would we lower the amount of time this ex cons are watched once they are back into the population with regular people. The parolees should have to prove that they won't recommit through a reasonable amount of parole time, which I believe should be more than just a year and a half, so that they can be somewhat monitored rather than nobody paying attention to them. Also I think it is a great thing to give judges the power to give offenders a lesser sentence based certain factors because judges should have be able to have some discretion like officers do. ACE001
ReplyDeleteI like that we are reducing the minimum sentence times because this could mean that jails and prisons will be losing inmates and this may help solve the overcrowding issues. This also helps with money, because prisoners can be expensive. The less prisoners we have, the less we will be paying for them, obviously. I also like how they are funding more rehabilitation centers. Instead of being sent to prison for a short time, people can instead be sent to these rehabilitation centers and hopefully they can get their lives on the right track. More rehabilitation centers could lead to less repeat offenders. zmw001
ReplyDeleteHowever, I feel like lowering the sentences could make criminals feel like the sentences are a joke and they will not be scared of the jail time. So maybe instead of cleaning people up and keeping people out of prisons, this will increase drug crimes because criminals simply do not care about doing so little time. I feel like we need to try something new because what we have going right now is not good enough, so lowering minimum sentences is a risk worth taking to me. zmw001
DeleteI also agree with the lowering if minimal sentencing. Drug sentences are too harsh in my opinion, and lowering them will and has really helped lower the prison population. I don't really know how I feel about them shrinking the size of the zones around schools and nursing homes and what not for drug dealers. I think that over protecting schools from people like that is a good thing.-OKC001
DeleteI think that taking advantage of other options besides incarceration is a great idea, mainly in the area of drug crimes. There is a very high possibility that getting locked up will not prevent that person from committing that same crime. However, supplying a place for rehabilitation and the help that they need may make a lasting impact on a person, forever changing how they live their life. I do not personally see the perks of spending the money to incarcerate someone for an extreme period of time on a drug charge, when we cannot be sure that it is making any difference. I thought that the recommendation of reducing the area from 1,000 feet to 500 feet when someone is being charged with drug crimes committed near parks, churches, schools and senior citizen facilities was a pretty good idea as well. This does not seem much different to me than committing the offense anywhere else, since anyone could witness it at any given time, regardless where the crime was committed. All of this is part of the attempt to reduce the prison population, hoping to do so by 25% over the next 10 years, which would obviously be a positive thing.
ReplyDeletegh_blackhawks001
I would definently have to agree with you points and opinions you are making. Especially on the part when you touch the point on putting someone in prison for a crime doesn't mean they wont get out and commit it twice. Half those people will get out and commit that same crime. It doesn't ensure that they will learn the lesson prison is. People often assume they are above the law and they don't get caught again. Then they violate the parole and what do you know they are back in that situation again. So that isnso very true I also don't 100% understand the perks of spending money to incarcerate for a long time. Your response was great! Ofh002
DeleteRecommendations that have been proposed include training to recognize implicit bias within the criminal justice system, including officers, judges, lawyers and lawyers. Along with that, they wish to pursue collecting data, on race and ethnicity to better understand how minorities are affected by this bias. Although the media comes across as proposing that every single law enforcement officer is biased and racist, that is not how it plays out. There are of course some bad apples within the criminal justice system, but claiming that a majority of the system is corrupt, is simply absurd and inaccurate. In every category of people, there will always be a small percentage of them that can potentially ruin the reputation of the rest of the group, and this is what we are seeing throughout the criminal justice system, not complete corruption and racial bias. Recommendations for reform are always focusing on decreasing prison population, and we have been successful since 2015, declining 9.6%.
ReplyDeletegh_blackhawks002
These recommendations will surely help bring the criminal justice system to a more efficient state, and will allow for the system to be run more effectively. It is true that the system has received a bad name because of the actions of a few bad apples, but the system as a whole is fair and just. It is the job of the people within the system and those planning to enter the system as a criminal justice major to help usher out those bad apples and make way for more just people. The decreasing incarceration rate is also helpful to the image of the system as it shows that the system has become more understanding and compassionate wit the people that abide within it. Pack002
DeleteGovernor Rauner in my opinion did a wonderful job handling the process of reforming the Illinois criminal justice system. He went about it in such a way that didn’t throw any one party under the bus, but also brought about real change. The fact that the prison population has dropped almost ten percent since much of this was enacted is proof that it was handled correctly. Through Governor Rauner’s actions, real change was brought about that actually benefitted the community. I think that in this one case, other states can look to Illinois as a great example on how to reform your criminal justice system. Getting Republicans and Democrats to actually work together on a bill has brought about fast change, and we as a public need to push for this cooperation to continue so that we may be actually benefitted by our state government. The fact that this plan over the next ten years will drop our state’s prison population by 25 percent is reason for applause. With more positive changes like these, Illinois can become one of the shining examples on how to reform our criminal justice system that is fair and effective for all parties involved. I really do appreciate the fact that Governor Rauner didn’t drag the criminal justice community through the mud when he put this plan into action, like President Obama has done. -OKC001
ReplyDeleteI agree with your statement, i do think that it is positive that the prison population has decreased and that this is a step in the right direction. With positive changes i thing that there will be more of a positive outcome. bball001
DeleteThese recommendations that have been imposed could help benefit investigators throughout their daily jobs. The changes being recommended to change the type of offense a certain drug charge should be, will help investigators quickly determine whether to investigate the charges or to leave it and move onto more serious drug offenses. The movement to try and lower prison population might not be as helpful to investigators however as they may not be able to pursue the correct length of punishment they wish the criminal to be given, simply because the system is trying to make it so not as many people go to prion. Nonetheless, these recommendations will do much more good than harm to the system, and will help the system to continue to better itself for the good of the people. Governor Rauner should be given much credit for his ability to actually bring about change instead of sitting back and waiting for it to happen on its own or waiting for someone else to do it. He could be looked at as an example for other states, so they may too follow in the footsteps of change and help to better their own communities and in the process the country as a whole. Pack002
ReplyDeleteI believe this reform will help both the people in the community and the people getting put away fro one bad mistake. The recidivism rates will hopefully go down due to the fact that the offender will not be molded into a more hardened criminal from spending so much time in prison. Dropping the prison population by 10% is a huge change in my opinion, it is saving money and helping the families without loved ones that are in prison. This reform will also help law enforcement determine what they need to spend more time investigating the petty drug offenses that pack the nation's prisons. I believe this will bring cooperation within local communities and bring law enforcement and society together in a time where law enforcement is very much looked down upon and ridiculed.looking at other ways to punish for crimes is just what this tangled up system needs, drug crimes in particular where the offender needs more help than being locked in a cell for years. This reform will help offenders get on the right path hopefully and ensure that they stay on the path to succeed and become a working part of society.
ReplyDelete#Klick61
I agree with you. Reform is always good when it impacts who and how long people are sent to prison. There is something wrong when a minor drug charge offender has a longer sentence than a first degree murder offender, but it does occur in our justice system. I also agree that we need a unity between our communities and law enforcement on all matters in order to improve our justice system. Banshee002
DeleteI agree when you say the Governor did a great job with this reform, when the criminal justice system is in much need of reform. I also agree with the fact that he did not bring the criminal justice community down with this reform like so many democrats have. That is a true leader in my opinion.
ReplyDelete#Klick61
Training to recognize implicit racial and ethnic bias among law enforcement, officers, judges, and lawyers to me is a good idea. As we know, America is made up of many different races, backgrounds, and beliefs, we would think that would be just as important to our justice system more than anyone since they are the ones who are pretty much in charge with everything. I do like the fact that they talked about reducing certain sentencing for different crimes. Some people get put away and are expected to serve an outrageous amount of time due to their unlawful acts. I just see it as we should really look into if it was that serious of a crime. Some people end up having their whole life thrown away just for some petty act and end up having to serve a ridiculous amount of time. Reducing certain sentences shouldn't just be to keep the population in jails/prisons down. As a person in law enforcement they should look into whether the punishment will actually work. Kt001
ReplyDeleteI agree with you on training to recognize implicit, racial, and ethnic bias. Its something law enforcement officers deal with every day of their careers and it is something they have to become good at dealing with. there are so many different ethnic groups in today's society along with a multitude of races. I also agree with liking the reducing the sentences on certain levels such as felonies. Not all criminal acts should be treated on the same level of punishment.
DeleteHSP001
The criminal justice reform that has been taking place over the past few years in Illinois is exactly what needed to happen. Governor Rauner is continuously trying to find new as well as appropriate ways to decrease the prison populations. This not only helps open up enough room for the criminals that have committed serious enough crimes and belong in prison, it also give the ones who may have committed a crime that was more petty rather than harmful a second chance. By pulling some of these drug offenders out and or giving them a different option such as rehabilitation could send them on the right path. Locking somebody up in a prison cell for years is not always the appropriate thing to do especially when it comes to a drug charge, they need help. I feel as if though it is a good thing to see the government realize what they had been doing wasn't exactly working and to see them revise it. As stated in the article they were talking about reducing the sentence on felony charges except for class 4. A possibility for criminals that are sentenced to an extended period of time more than likely would not know how to return to civilian life in an appropriate manor therefore leading them right back to where they came from, the prison. By reevaluating and reducing these sentences this could greatly help this problem. I think what the governor is doing is solid plan.
ReplyDeleteHSP011
I agree that locking someone up in a prison cell is not always the best thing to do, especially when the crime is nonviolent. Unique cases call for discretion to be used when it comes to sentencing, but it is difficult to balance discretion and law. I also think that it is important for ex-felons to be guided when it comes to them returning to civilian life. It’s hard for people with a criminal past to not fall back into what they were doing before they went to prison. With help from the criminal justice system, they can start a new life and become productive citizens. Scuba002
DeleteReducing prison populations will help the criminal justice system run more effectively, but making sure the new, reduced punishment outweighs the perceived benefit(s) of the crime will be tricky. I agree with the recommendation of reducing sentencing classifications for felony drug crimes; I think it is absurd when drug offenders spend more time in prison than those who committed crimes that involved intentionally/ directly harming others. Also, shifting the funding from prisons to rehabilitation will better help those who committed minor offenses/ misdemeanors receive help they need so they do not end up re-offending. The government can also save more money by rehabilitating than incarcerating, as long as the rehabilitation is planned out smartly and effectively. It seems the system is moving towards giving criminals their rights back. In some states felons and ex-felons may permanently lose their right to vote; I believe they should be able to keep that right because they are still citizens of this country and most felons will likely return to civilization. The article includes that the federal government will pay for victim trauma-recovery centers. I like that the victims of the crime are not overlooked like they used to be. The criminal justice system is working towards giving victim more rights, such as the ability to speak during a sentencing hearing. Scuba002
ReplyDeleteI completely agree that this will help the criminal justice system. Especially, rehabilitation will help more than incarceration. I'm glad instead of just looking down on people for drug charges, they can be helped and get some of their rights back. stlblues001
DeleteIt is very nice to see change occurring in the criminal justice system. While there is a lot of work to do, Rauner has definitely taken a step in the right direction. I'm glad that the law is now giving back some discretion to the judges to determine whether jail is appropriate based on the circumstances and based on the individual. Since Rauner created the Illinois State Commission on Criminal Justice and Sentencing Reform in 2015, the committee has introduced several changes to the criminal justice system. Some of which have been signed into law. Since the committee's creation the prison population has decreased by nearly 10%, which is great news to hear. JE001
ReplyDeleteI agree that this reform can be a blessing. people can start getting the help they need instead of being thrown straight into jail. this will help lessens the numbers in our prisons. which in the long run will save the state more money.
Deleteevo001
The changes that Governor Bruce Rauner is integrating into the Illinois justice system are wonderful. The main thing he changed that i like is that the sentencing for felonies except class 4 has been reduced. I like the fact that this happened because it gives people more leeway when it comes to their crimes but it doesn't give them the idea that they can just get away with anything. The trauma recovery centers that were brought up for crime victims is such a great idea. When it comes to crimes it seems like the victims are cast aside without much care. These new additions will do wonders to this state that is riddled with problems ranging from our budget to our justice system which is extremely bad in this day and age. Also the fact that the funds that will be used for the victim trauma centers will be drawn from federal funds instead of state funds so that will greatly help our budget along with getting the centers put up faster. RM001
ReplyDeleteThe article mentioned several new recommendations given by the Governor's commission on criminal justice and sentencing reform, including the introduction of new implicit bias training for police and changes in laws to reduce prison population. The article also mentions that the state prison population had dropped by almost ten percent since the body that made these suggestions was put together. One of the recommendations mentioned in the article was to reduce the minimum sentences for certain types of felonies. This can be good because it increases the amount of discretion a judge can have in determining what an offender's sentence should be. Another recommendation the article made was to introduce new implicit bias training to police departments. This can be helpful in getting police to acknowledge that they may have biases that they do not know about so they can address them before they hinder their ability to police effectively. Another suggestion was to halve the required distance that a drug dealer would have to be in of a school, church, or park in order for it to be an aggravating factor in their drug case from 1000ft to 500ft. Since the punishment for selling drugs near a school, park, or church is a longer sentence than the sentence for just selling drugs, reducing the distance and thus reducing the amount of people within the smaller distance will limit the amount of people who are incarcerated for longer which will reduce prison population. The question of whether these reforms will be enough will be answered by their outcome, if they fix all the problems of the criminal justice system then they will be enough, but if they don't they will not be enough. CoolGuy001
ReplyDeleteI agree when you said how some officers may face biases that they themselves don't consider to be "bias." As society grows and people change more and more minorities seem to be "targeted" by law enforcement officers. I don't believe that all officers think they are considered doing so because that's not their mindset and intentions but because of what is broadcasted nationwide. What is shown on news channels around the world is minorities being the main focus of all officers. Biases should be addressed to all officers due to situations they may face. It's important to always be prepared. behappy001
DeleteThe final recommendations created by Gov. Bruce Rauner now adds another thirteen to the list. One of the most crucial recommendations, in my opinion, is the training to recognize "implicit racial and ethnic bias" among the-enforcement officers, judges, and lawyers. It also collects data on race and ethnicity to understand how minorities are affected. I feel like this is already currently being trained among departments around the U.S. due to the out-lash of violence from both officers and offenders. By understanding minorities and the way they think and feel in such situations may possibly decrease the uproar. I also think that reducing sentencing sentencing classifications for felony drug charges. By doing so, this will allow these offenders to rehabilitate and receive probation if need be. This will lead to a decrease in the state's prison population. As the article states, due to Sentencing Reform, the population declined by 9.6 percent. I also think it's great that trauma-recovery centers for crime victims will be established. This allows these victims to go back into society with a better mindset. Having them staffed according to their needs is a big benefit as well. Rauner has signed 15 criminal justice bills and i believe that these recommendations will benefit all. behappy001
ReplyDeleteReducing prison sentences is one thing that matters right now in this day and age where taxes are getting extremely high and if we reduce prison sentences we won’t be paying as much for prisoners per year if they aren’t staying in prison as long. The idea for reduced sentencing for classifications of felonies for drugs is a great idea and a bad idea in my opinion. I like the fact that it will get lessened sentences for people who offend marijuana laws, as the drug is becoming more and more accepted with the research and medical advances it has made in the last few years. If the recidivism rate lowers due to these laws about the classifications of felonies it could do wonders for our prison system. RRM002
ReplyDeleteI think that's a very good point that you make getting people out of prison for lengthy sentences on drug crimes is what we need to be doing. There are many people who shouldn't be in prison for life scentences for selling drugs but people like brock turner doesn't even get a year in jail for raping someone? the system is off track, need to focus on what really matters. -dicaprio0001
DeleteI think reducing the sentences is a good thing because it reduces overpopulated prisons, and how much we're paying to keep prisoners inside. stlblues002
DeleteEvery time you hear something about Obama it's always negative content. But I think this video proves a few people's doubts. Let'e be honest I think one of the main reasons people don't like Obama is just because he is a man of color.. that's just the ugly truth. One of the biggest reasons we are the most jailest nation in the country is because of the "war on drugs" ear. During their presidency Nixon and Regan decided to crack down on drugs. I believe they are one of the reasons we have 5% of the worlds population but 20% of the prison population. They are a factor of mass incarceration. Call me crazy, but i think it was all a huge conspiracy to lock of black people. Tie the weed to the hippies but make sure we correlate crack to black people. That's just my personal opinion though. The obama years were the least violent years, that counts for something right? Granting Commutations dosent mean he/she didn't commit the crime, it just means they have sufficently been punished. -dicaprio001
ReplyDeletethis was meant for the other blog. -dicaprio001
DeleteI’m glad to see the state government seeing the problem with big populations in prisons. Making this happen would help the criminal justice system move forward instead of backwards. It’ll help the ones in prison who don’t need to be in there for long sentences, and hopefully it’ll help the communities feel more safe in their own town. I know getting rid of crime altogether is impossible, but hopefully it’ll reduce. By reducing sentences, the state will also save money, which is a huge plus. stlblues001
ReplyDeleteIt's pretty fantastic to see the government doing something, especially here in Illinois. Constant stand-stills in decisions and blah blah cut costs blah blah. Our state is failing in many ways, but it seems that the incarceration system will soon be a way that is not quite failing. And it's a cut to spending that truly benefits the state. - AJC001
DeleteGovernor Bruce Rauner is changing sentencing for felonies. I like that this is happening because not everyone deserves long sentences, and getting a felony at a young age than not having a good life because of a mistake you made so long ago. I think it’ll be good in the long run because instead of just incarceration they can also get rehabilitation and that will help even more. The funds will be used for trauma centers to help even more. Hopefully, these changes will fix some of the problems in the criminal justice system, instead of making them worse. stlblues002
ReplyDeleteI agree with you people should not be charged for that long or something so small that can easily ruin there life. People can change there life around if they want to or can just keep getting caught with the same thing. But it is the right thing to do for people who only been charged once. Some people can learn there lesson form just that one time and turn them self around. I think they are doing this to save money and time.adelle002
DeleteI think it's an amazing thing to advise a training recommendation to recognize implicit bias and racial ethnic bias. There are many people within the system who have these bias, and use their power to get away with it. We all have bias even though we don't act on them, its there. If you'd like to admit it or not, it is. Illinois is also begging to reduce minimum scentences for each felony crimes, except class 4. Reducing for felonly drug charges. I think it's important to get people out of the system for simple drug crimes. Someone shouldn't be in jail for years for selling drugs. Another amazing thing is the Halfway Back Program an alternative for incarceration. We need to just stop locking people up and throwing away the key. It's nice to know the crime rate has gone down 9.6%. Illinois senate is going to pass a new trauma recovery centers for crime victims. That to me is amazing. People who have been victims never really get closure. They have specific needs that need to be meant, it's nice to know that they will be staffed according to their needs as well. This is such a win. -dicaprio001
ReplyDeleteWin win I say. The incarceration's rules of minimum sentencing has, from day one, been dragging out system into the dirt. Simply locking up everyone leads to a lot of costs, a lot of anger, mistakes, confusion, and so much more. Alternative ideals must be taken, and simple drug crimes should not be so harshly punished. Drugs are not any good, but they aren't the same as stabbing people to death. Plus, giving drug criminals a chance at rehabiliation is a much more sound solution for the society and economy as a whole.
ReplyDeleteAnd for Illinious to be taking steps to help the system in pretty sweet. Our government has taken note and seeks to correct the problems. Only good can come out of forgiving minor drug offenses, and I see that the future of the Illinois incarceration system is likely to be a bit brighter, for everyone in and out. - AJC001
Many states over the years have been trying to reduce the amount of inmates that are incarnated in there prisons. By reducing the prison sentences on drug offences it can save the state a lot of money. Also many drug offenders need more help then just being incarcerated. In some cases rehabilitation programs can help and other programs can help. By using other programs to help inmates it can reduce the recidivism rate and save money. another thing about this article that caught my attention to me was the training recommendations to recognize bias implicit and racial. As a student stated in one of her their blogs many officers use bias because they have more power and feel as if they can get away with it. Hawks001
ReplyDeleteI like how they are offering a better way for people that are charge with drugs. Its not right for hem to charge them for that long for small offensives with drugs.To try and help them more to be a better person to enter the world of a new them. They should have treated them bettering the first place when they saw the problem not for the president to make it happen when h noticed it.I think that when this is taken place more people will be doing drugs because they know they can not get as charged much with drugs. They will just keep doing it and not learn there lesson of what it can do o there life and the people around them. But this is also good cause there are some people that have been treated badly by the laws than other people.So it shows that everyone will be treated the same when the are charged with same drug offences.adelle002
ReplyDeleteI don't think that people are going to see lower sentences as leeway to being able to do more drugs. There will still be sentences but there's no reason for people to be getting 20+ years in prison for drug offenses. The way the drug courts are looking at offenses is that lower sentences work, and that upon release there will be mandatory classes and meetings to help reduce the risk of recidivism. I don't really know what you mean when you say they should've treated them better in the first place, these are new recommendations being put into place. There was no better way previously, laws are laws. They tried to impose a maximum sentence whenever they could. That's the whole point of them trying to change the sentencing now.
Delete-Hootie002
People that are caught with drugs regardless if they are selling it or using it should get a hard punishment out of it. People need to realize that drugs are bad regardless of what drug it is. Maybe it will make people think about it before doing it. Is that little but of drug really worth it? hotfox003
DeleteI like how the governor is trying to reduce the prison population by making the sentencing for drug offence more reasonable. That being said he is right in that the correction system needs to be reformed in the way that when a convict gets out he has better chances to become a valued part of the community. So to be fair I think if you do get charged with the same crime multiply times you do deserve a harsher sentence. if he is trying to get the budget to be balanced then we need to either put prisoners to work and try to make up for the lost in money for incarceration and what medical issues they have while in that get pulled from the budget.steel001
ReplyDeleteReducing prison sentences is something I believe strongly in and something I think the entire country needs to get on board with. From taking a corrections course I know that the incarcerated population is at an all time high, even though crime rates are actually decreasing. Reducing the minimum sentences for crimes would help those who are sitting in prison on petty drug crimes on ridiculously large sentences. But in the years past, that's how things were done. We tried to crack down on drug crimes by imposing the harshest sentences we could, and as proven by our every growing prison population it is not helping. The next step is to lower the sentencing, and work more on rehabilitation as opposed to strictly punishment. This will help those offenders to be able to rejoin the community. The main argument against lowering sentencing is that recidivism rates range between 50-75%. Yes, this is a lot but this is why we need to focus more on the mandatory classes and meetings that can help a former inmate create a well balanced life so that they don't feel the need to go back to their old ways that go them incarcerated in the first place. Training police departments how to recognize racial and ethnic bias among their coworkers and people in their field as well as looking at how certain races and ethnic groups are disproportionately showcased in the system is necessary. We can't afford to not look into biases in the police department with the ferguson riots still fresh in our minds and media blowing up any possible cases of bias the find. It's harder than ever to work in law enforcement today with media and racial tension at an all time high. Implementing training to limit any risk of racial bias or the misunderstanding of a possibly racially biased situation is needed.
ReplyDelete-Hootie002
I like how Rauner is requiring more training for police officers regarding race relations. I think there are many other areas to improve training for officers as well, especially on how to de-escalate a situation in order and shoot as a last resort. I know that that principle is taught in police training but how to enact it is often missed. Police officers may not have enough training in high stress situations and when faced with them can choose to act too soon. Quality education and training of our police officers should be a top priority in improving our justice system. Banshee002
ReplyDeleteI agree, i do think there is room for improvement but it is also good that they are requiring more training on how to act or what one should do. When faced with high stressed situations it is hard to think fast on what the correct way to do something is, therefore i believe that the training is a good thing to have. bball002
DeleteThe reforms mentioned in this article all seem like steps forward, both for reducing unnecessary burden on the prison system, and with helping convicts reform themselves. Reducing the penalties for drug related crimes will allow the police to deal with more important crimes, rather than having to deal with some a kid who got caught with weed. Offering the Halfway Back Program would also help former convicts re-adjust to life in normal society, along with keeping them away from the influence of less repentant criminals. Offering incentives to go through rehab will hopefully help motivate convicts to attend, allowing them to learn useful skills. The goal of prison shouldn't be just to keep criminals away from places where they can reoffend, but to help turn them into productive members of society. Also mentioned was training to recognize implicit racial and ethnic bias within various members of law-enforcement. This doesn't mention any type of training to reduce this bias, but being aware of it and recognizing it when it does show up will likely have a positive effect for those who would be affected by it. Lastly, giving judges the power to sentence jail or probation instead of prison, which makes sense for minor and/or first time offenses. - Green002
ReplyDeleteI don't truly a 100% agree too lessening the sentence,what is exactly the point of signing these bills? Putting innocent lives in jeopardy for money due to our own greed and excessive spending habits that has led to debt. Especially if they are using federal money to pay for these things. Theres so many people out here on jobs and in schools and they cant even get the resources they need because there is just isn't enough money or the budget is to low. I'm not saying it is a bad idea. I just believe we should be focusing more on the people out here who are doing what they are suppose to and arent being sent to jail or prison. Yet they don't have the money to do the things they love.I know everyone males mistakes but you the crime you have to do the time. Letting people off easily isn't going to do anything, its just going to put a person who needs help and counseling or guidance back out in the same situation they start her phone so that leaves them to do the same thing and once you're in the system the government made it extremely hard for you to do anything to improve your situation if you wanted to its just going to save the government money. What about the safety for the ones out here Who were effected by the decisions they make.ofh002
ReplyDeleteI agree that lessening the sentence is not the best thing to do, but the prison population is out of control. From what I read most of the prisoners being released were in prison for non-violent crimes (such as possession of a controlled substance.) I think drug offenders should get early release only if they go to a rehabilitation place. I 100% agree with you that we should be focusing more on the civilians who do what they are supposed to do. Letting criminals off easily definitely isn’t helping anyone out, especially since they probably won’t seek the help they need when they return to civilian life. Scuba004
DeleteIt is extremely upmost important to know the difference between Criminology and Criminal Justice. Most people believe or assume they are the same and in some ways they are but you need to be able to fully understand the difference between the two. You don't want to be that person someday and someone asks you or it shows up on a exam and you don't know. When you think of Criminology think of the crime it self and the sentence that person who has committed or violated the law and how long they should face. The crimes can vary from rape,domestic violence, assault,battery, drug possession, murder ect. It can be along any of those lines. Most States have different views on how much time a person might get. For example a person who commits murder in one state might receive life in prison and in a different state they might receive the death penalty. Or some places might have the same procedures or sentencing another place has. They can be similar or different it just depends. Criminal Justice is more along the lines of when did the crime happen and how was it discovered. You also have to ask yourself how was the situation handled. Both criminology and criminal justice are one. I say that because there are so many great job opportunities and benefits you can get and you are helping the citizens and communities around you. Law enforcement are our heroes. They do so many great things and save so many lives. Ofh002
ReplyDeleteI think the movement to lower prison population is good. Yes, there are some people that should be in prison for a life time, but for those that did a harmless crime, i believe that they should be able to get a second chance. With the prison population dropping around 10 percent, i believe that is a positive outcome, with more positive directions, then i would think there would be more positive outcomes. bball001
ReplyDeleteI agree the lowering of the prison population is a good idea. People who are committing non-violent crimes should not be sentenced as harshly as those committing violent crimes. The punishment needs to match the crime. Only time will tell if this will work or not, but the governor is on the right path to at least be acknowledging that there needs to be a change.mommy004
DeleteI do not believe we can ever have enough reform. Our laws, policies, habits are not perfect, not even close. Reform can be positive and negative but we will never know until we have a trial and error period. Reforms are important to learn how to be better and how to improve what already exists. Reading the article I am so excited for trauma- recovery centers, and the plan to decrease prison population by %25 in 10 years, that sounds amazing. Could there be drawbacks? Is this going to affect jobs in the Criminal Justice System? Maybe. But if we don't try to improve than the complaining about our current situation will never end. I always think we have room for improvement or to readdress how we are currently handling situations. The point is change is needed to set motion future ideas and reform. Marras002
ReplyDeleteFocusing on the larger crimes is a good thing, but sometimes getting away with little crimes can lead to those people committing a larger crime because they think they got away with it. With the prison rate dropping around 10 percent, i do think that is good in a way because some people should get a shorter sentence then what they have gotten in the past. But, i do think that we need to be careful on the leniency because their could be more crimes that are committed when they get out because they sentence was not very long. I think this could be a good thing or a bad thing. Yes it is good that the prison population has decreased, but are we just giving criminals a get out of jail free card essentially? I do think it is a good proposal and it is a controversy that should be talked about. bball002
ReplyDeleteI understand that each case is different, and the judge should do what they think is best for the circumstances. But the problem we have with the prison system right now is that we are treating people that are sent to prison like animals and that is exactly how they behave when they are in prison and when they are released. While I get why people want certain sentences reduced so the prisons are overcrowded, how about we do what prisons were made for. To make people learn they did something wrong and that they have to learn they will keep going back if they do not correct their behavior. Prison is supposed to rehabilitate people and change them and their behaviors so they don't go back. Maybe the government should try that and then maybe we don't have to worry about overcrowded prisons. hotfox003
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with this. While their are some people incarcerated that should not even be considered to be brought back into society, for example those in for violent crimes such as murder, rape, etc. Those incarcerated for long periods of time convicted of drug offences should really not even be in prison in the first place in my opinion. The prison system just 'rots' the person by having them sit in a prison cell without offering any opportunities to overcome their drug problem. They should just be sent straight to a rehabilitation facility instead because this would definitely lower the chances that the person re offends. CAE004
DeleteI like these ideas of each case being different but in my eyes a lot of non violent crimes should not get so much time on their sentence. And the idea of building rehabilitation centers for offenders to go to is a great idea and a great alternative for someone who doesn't need to be in prison for a small crime. Our country definitely needs to cut down on the amount of people we imprison. Petty crimes shouldn't get very much time in my opinion. Gym003
DeleteIt is a well known fact that minorities are arrested and incarcerated at alarming rates in this country. Add in the police brutality that has been all over the media lately, I think the governor is making a very wise choice to address the way minorities are handled by the criminal justice system here in Illinois. The War On Drugs caused a large amount of people to become incarcerated in America. Which has proven to be a huge burden on society. Money that is being used to house these non-violent offenders could be better spent on rehabilitative services. These individuals although, they should be punished for breaking the law do not deserve such harsh penalties. So I think both the prisoner and society would benefit with lighter sentences for drug dealers. The focus needs to be geared towards more serious offenses such as rapes and murders. It is a shame when a drug dealer is sentenced to more time than someone committing a rape. I am in support of you do the crime you do the time, but the punishment handed down needs to match the crime committed. Someone selling drugs should be given the chance to return to society and given the tools to be productive citizens in the community. If the system does not start trying to work on rehabilitating instead of punishing the prisons will continue to be full. But for certain changes need to be made to the criminal justice system in this nation, we can't continue to do the same things over and over again when they are shown to not be successful and expect different results. mommy004
ReplyDeleteEven though I do not agree with a lot of what Governor Rauner says, I agreed with what he has done recently. I think it is wonderful that he is making it mandatory that officers need to learn how to handle the different ethnic groups, because that will help with the police/public relations. I also think that it is a smart decision that Rauner made to reduce some of the ridiculous drug offense charges. Not only that, but the fact that he is proposing the building of programs to help those who have been victims of crimes and also those who have committed the crime. With both of those problematic areas mended, the overcrowded prison population will, more likely than not, significantly decline. Rayder004
ReplyDeleteI agree, making it mandatory that officers receive more specialized training with ethnic groups will severely aid their public relations with the general public. Alongside that, lowering incarceration rates will be viewed as a major stepping stone towards getting Illinois on par with other great states.-Ghost143
DeleteI agree with Governor Rauner's efforts to try to reduce the prison population in Illinois. I agree with the recommendation to have police officers, judges, and lawyers trained on their implicit and ethnic biases. This will definitely help with restoring as well as strengthening a trust between the criminal justice system and the citizens. Reducing the sentencing qualifications for felony drug crimes is another recommendation that I agreed with simply because I feel that people should really not even be incarcerated for drug related crimes. They need help to get over their drug addiction and sitting in a prison cell does not help them to rehabilitate. I also really liked the bill passed by the senate to create new trauma recovery centers crime victims and incentives for inmates to rehabilitate themselves. I think the criminal justice system seems to get too caught up in the act of the crime and have their only focus on putting the bad guy in prison without considering any ways to further help those affected by the criminal act. By allowing incentives for these inmates to rehabilitate themselves, this will reduce the chances of recidivism by the inmate. CAE004
ReplyDeleteGovernor Bruce Rauner did a great job producing the recommendations. These are just a few of the steps we need to take to improve the criminal justice system. Although I think the recommendation of training to recognize racial/ ethnic bias is great, I think almost all of these law-enforcement officers, judges, and lawyers treat everyone fairly and it is just a few people who ruin reputations. It would be difficult and take a while to collect accurate data on race and ethnicity to be able to see how minorities are affected by this bias. The results of these reports will be interesting because it seems everyone has different ideas on where we are at on this problem. Restoration of the Halfway Back Program is a great idea that will allow for the reduction of prison population rates. The Halfway Back Program can also help give treatment for those who need it. The criminal justice system needs to create more rehabilitation programs to make sure past offenders stay out of prison. We need more recommendations like these to better improve the criminal justice system, but the Illinois Senate takes a long time and hardly agrees when it comes to passing these recommendations. As the article says, the commission submitted 14 recommendations last year but only two bills have been signed into laws based off of them. Scuba004
ReplyDeleteI think that this article contains a lot of new policies that will greatly improve policing in Illinois. The fist policy mentioned, training for and recognition of implicit racial and/or ethnic bias, will help improve relations between police and minorities in communities because once biases are recognized, they can be corrected. The next recommendations, reducing minimum sentences for felonies other than class 4 felonies reducing sentencing classifications for felony drug crimes, and limiting the maximum term of mandatory supervised release to 18 months for Class X, Class 1 and Class 2 felonies, and restoring the Halfway Back program will help to greatly reduce overcrowding in Illinois jails and prisons. The Illinois Senate also recently passed a bill to create new crime victims trauma-recovery centers. This bill also includes incentives for inmates to rehabilitate themselves and gives judges the power to sentence someone to probation or jail time instead of prison, if the judge deems it a more effective punishment. I think that these plans are a good foundation to work off of when trying to improve the policing in our state. They will help to continue the decline of incarcerated individuals in our state and help to improve police-community relations. ekt004
ReplyDeleteGovernor Bruce Rauner seems to be attempting to make the states criminal justice system more efficient by pushing these recommendations and changes forward. These changes will help to lower incarceration rates in the following years. Lowering some of the restrictions and punishments for illegal drug distribution will help severally. Furthermore, trying to eliminate more bias between officers and different ethnic groups will largely aid in public relations. Along side that, Governor Rauner has also pushed for quicker release times for certain felony charges with supervision. Currently our prison system is packed full and is a big whole in our state budget. I am personally looking forward to some of these changes and what they might mean for the future of our law enforcement and correctional departments.
ReplyDelete-Ghost143
DeleteIncarceration rates are very high. That has finally became more of a social issue and there has been actions to help it. The incarceration rates have dropped about 9% and that rates will hopefully continue you to increase. Some people do not belong in jail for extended periods of time and some not at all. First offenses and minor offenses don't always need jail. People make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes and they shouldn't have their life thrown away for it. Once you have a criminal record, it's near impossible to find a decent job to where you can make a living. This could happen at a young age and youll whole life ahead of you will be gone. Punishments need to be made or people will continue with their actions. You shouldn't make a punishment that people can not overcome. The prisons also are not the best place to get better. Some people have issues and if they commit a crime, maybe they couldn't help it. Prison wouldn't be the place they belong. They need an institution or a facility where they can receive treatment and become better. Their is no point of wasting a life in jail if they don't deserve to be there. Mustang003
ReplyDeletePrisons are getting very many people and people who caught with drugs shouldn’t be in the same incarcerations with murders. There are many people who are getting arrested just for drugs who are going to prison and aren’t getting any better as a person. People who get arrested for drugs should have to go to a rehabilitation rather than wasting their whole life in prison. Especially if this type of crime was done when you were young. People make mistakes but, instead of ruining their whole life by sentencing them to 30 years in prison they should go get rehab and get help to become a better person. Now with Governor Rauner pushing for the criminal justice system to have these recommendations and changes. These types of changes will push for lower incarceration rates in the following years. I’m hoping to see some of these changes happen fast because are prison systems are packed and can’t take much more crowding. It seems that the state of Illinois is on the right track. CRC100
ReplyDeleteI see where you are coming from about the drug problem but when you have a person who is selling meth and get busted, they should be sent to prison. The judge won't give them years that they shouldn't have gotten. Once in prison then they can have help so once they are out back with society they can stay clean. Pie004
DeleteThe number of people in prison for drug charges is very high in today's society. Today most people go to prison either because they have possession of drugs or they are distributing them. If you look at statistics of why people are in prison you will notice that a lot of people go to prison for just a drug offense. So most prisons are filled with people who put the drugs on the street and people who try to make a living from selling. With Governor Rauner making the plan to try to reduce the prison rate by 25 percent is a very good idea. He is trying to repair a prison system that has been broken for many years. Putting people who are in prison for more than 10 years for selling drugs is a waste of space in our prison system. Take them out and put them in a rehabilitation center and try to hope they won't go to drugs again. While in a rehabilitation teach them and get them ready for real life situations they might have to deal with once they are ready to leave. Help them get a job and help them try to live a regular life. DC004
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that trying to reduce the prison rate by 25% is a good idea. I think that with the changing in sentencing times for drug related and nonviolent offenses will help to prevent the rise of prison rates in the future. I also believe that sending people with drug offenses to a rehabilitation center is a much better idea than to send them to prison for extended periods. JAG001 / JAG002
DeleteThe criminal justice system is a bit broken. Instead of letting it stay broken and act like nothing's wrong, changes are being made. The prison population has reduced 25% in the past 10 years. Rauner said they haven't met their goal yet, but as you can see they are making very good process at reaching it. The illinois senate has passed a bill to create new trauma-recovery centers for crime victims. This is such a good idea in many ways. You can go reduce the sentence of an inmate to help them get back in the real world. Except, once they are out, why would they not go back to their old ways. They won't be able to get the best job and will more than likely end up back doing exactly what go the min to jail in the first place. Not all inmates can get out of jail and get a better life. That's why they can now get help. If they need help this would be the place they can get it. The inmates will also receive incentives for going to the rehabilitation center. Mustang004
ReplyDeleteI think you have a really good perspective on this. Many convicted felons will not be able to find work, so there they will resort to their old ways of making money, such a trafficking. Rehabilitation programs will help the criminals to understand why their actions were wrong, and alternatives to problems they will face in the real world. Additionally, I am unsure if they should have to be given incentives to want to attend a rehabilitation center. If a criminal truly wants to clean up their act, then they should put in the effort without extra rewards, other than the reward of a better life at the end. Purple003
DeleteI agree with you. our current system is broken and flawed. It needs change. The only thing we can do is voice our opinions, and try to help bring about the change that we want to see. I like the idea of a new trauma-recovery center for crime victims. I think it will really help people get back into the world and be a part of society again. agentp002
DeletePersonally I would agree with Rauner's commission with these ideas. I think it is important to lower incarceration times as long as they are nonviolent offenses. Someone should not have to serve life in prison for having possession of drugs in my opinion. I also really like that fact that they want training to recognize racial and ethnic bias. This has seemingly grown as a problem in the criminal justice field, at least in my eyes. I would like to see these "hate crimes" go down in numbers. The bill to create new rehab centers for offenders would be great for them. It could for one actually help them kick addictions and two avoid jail time altogether. I feel like this will actually help offenders get better and not commit crimes again. To me it seems like Rauner has some of the right ideas that the Criminal justice system needs he has passed 15 criminal justice bills. I already agree with the ones in this article so hopefully some real changes start coming to make our local and state Criminal justice systems better. Gym003
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading about some of the reform ideas for the criminal justice system in Illinois. The idea of lowering prison sentences for drug related offenses is something I completely agree with. The prisons are currently over populated in most instances, and harsh sentences for drug related offenses are a main cause of it. I like that a focus of these reforms is to help train officers in recognizing racial biases. Especially considering what recently happened in Chicago, this is a great route to take in the state's criminal justice reform. Also, along with the reform of sentencing for drug related crime was a bill to create rehab centers for offenders. Not only will this help people kick there addictions who couldn't otherwise, but it could also help to further reduce jail time for these offenders. I also appreciate that Rauner has acknowledged that there goals have not been reached, that they have made good progress but there is still work that needs to be done. JAG001 / JAG002
ReplyDeleteI think this is very important. In order for everyone to be treated fairly, and be viewed as innocent until proven guilty, it is crucial that no one is biased. It is not fair, and it is unethical for law enforcements, judges, prosecutors, etc. to be biased towards a specific race, gender, or ethnicity. If someone is biased the only ethical thing to do is remove themselves from the situation because it is impossible to treat someone fairly if you already have a biased opinion before you know the issue at hand. Additionally, I think it is good that some prisoners are being released for petty crimes, especially when they have already paid their dues and served more than enough time in prison for their offenses. On the other hand, I hope the releases do not get out of hand. I think everyone who commits a crime should be punished for their actions, especially when they have been given multiple chances to clean up their act. If an individual is released early, I think it is important to watch them closely to ensure safety. Furthermore, I think the rehabilitation option is wonderful because not all offenders can clean up their act on their own; some require additional help other than just a prison sentence. If they are willing to clean up their act, we should give them a fair chance, but we must also consider the safety of those who have not committed any acts of crime. Purple003
ReplyDeleteI agree with the top half of your comment. However, rehabilitation can be tricky especially when you use the word "fair" so many times. It is very nice to give everyone an equal shot and I would love for the world to be like that, but the world never has, isn't, and will never be fair. That's life. If you give someone a chance, then the next guy has to be given a chance. Because if he didn't that would be unfair. Then the next guy wants it. Can't say no, otherwise that's unfair. Soon rehabilitation costs go through the roof and nothing changes. There would have to be a strong system to implement "fairness" into any kind of institution. The people were unfair to the non-convicted people outside some how or another that's why they are there. But hey, it's just my opinion. Food for thought. USA003
DeleteIt’s encouraging to hear that we have reduced our prison population by almost 10%, but the thing I liked most about this article was reading about are we are putting a system in place to rehabilitate victims. We talk so much about how offenders need to be rehabilitated, but it seems like we’ve forgotten about the victims sometimes. Being the victim of a crime can be a life-altering event. People need things like counseling and support in order to restore their quality of life. As for the offenders, I wished the article had shared some examples of what the incentives will be. I think it’s a good idea n order to get more offenders into rehab, I just hope it remains as effective as it has shown to be. I wouldn’t want it to just become a formality in order for them to get the incentive. I’m happy to hear about the positive changes Illinois is making to its Criminal Justice system. It’s gives me hope that maybe Illinois is on the right track with something for once. RustyPete001
ReplyDeletePrisons are getting very many people and people who caught with drugs shouldn’t be in the same incarcerations with murders. There are many people who are getting arrested just for drugs who are going to prison and aren’t getting any better as a person. People who get arrested for drugs should have to go to a rehabilitation rather than wasting their whole life in prison. Especially if this type of crime was done when you were young. People make mistakes but, instead of ruining their whole life by sentencing them to 30 years in prison they should go get rehab and get help to become a better person. Now with Governor Rauner pushing for the criminal justice system to have these recommendations and changes. These types of changes will push for lower incarceration rates in the following years. I’m hoping to see some of these changes happen fast because are prison systems are packed and can’t take much more crowding. It seems that the state of Illinois is on the right track.CRC002
ReplyDeleteI agree in our prison system we have drug offenders who need rehabilitation in the same cells as murderers. It is great that Illinois is making the move to create a better system to deal with drug offenders rather than ruining their lives by just tossing them in jail and not providing them with the means to break their habits. BIke004
DeleteI agree with you. There are many non-violent offenders that are being put into high-security facilities alongside murderers and rapists. Instead of punishing, the route should be more rehabilitative. I'm not saying we should baby criminals, but each person and each crime must be approached differently. agentp001
DeleteSince the war on drugs many families have been torn apart because of the harsh charges for drug offenses. Many times people were being thrown in jail for drugs longer than violent criminal offenders and left there to rot instead of being rehabilitated. I think that it is great that Illinois is going to put forth an effort to lessen the time spent in prison for drug offenses and creating more rehabilitative programs. With doing this Illinois is also making an effort to make people in the criminal justice system undergo training to help them pinpoint signs of having an implicit bias and how to avoid having an implicit bias towards a group of people. These are both good things to do in our state to try and reduce the amount of inmates in our prison system and to get them back and functioning in the real world. The training on implicit bias will also help us have a well trained and informed police force working our streets. Bike001
ReplyDelete*Bike004
DeleteI also like that fact that they are moving froward with rehabilitation. Drug addicts need help and should not be treated like violent criminals. I also believe that the racial bias should be enforced because it would make the people who face racial problems feel more safe. coutinho004
DeleteI think you have a good point. Kids are growing up with one parent and the parent left out is struggling as a single parent to provide for their family and also support the loved one that is incarcerated.sly2003
DeleteIn my opinion, the racial and ethnic basis should not be recommended but enforced. It is no secret that African Americans have it the hardest in this country. They get more sentencing time than a white American even though they both do the same crime. Meanwhile my opinion on drugs, like marijuana, people should not be serving harsh sentences for non-violent crimes. Being in prison with inmates that have murdered, raped, and many other violent acts make it worse for them. Being surround by bad people all day very day for however long they are in prison makes them into those people because they have to survive. Drugs are an addiction and people who are addicts need rehab to help them in society rather than being in prison. A young man or women should not have their life ruined over drugs and get sent to jail. When they get out, it is hard for them to find jobs and most fall right back into those habits of taking drugs.
ReplyDeletecoutinho004
I was able over the summer to go into the Federal Prison in Pekin, IL. While in there I learned how the prison was helping the inmates transition into society by having an area just for inmates who have a year or less. This showed how the prison is making changes to help make sure the inmates stay clean once out. Pie004
ReplyDeleteTaking steps to improve a problem, no matter how big or how small that problem may be, is a good thing in my mind and a good step forward. Being able to get both Democrats and Republicans to work toward a common goal of improving the criminal justice system is an even greater thing. It is sad to see anyone get arrested, tried, and convicted. But the easiest way to reverse that system is just don't do it. Learn and have some common sense and some self discipline. You know its illegal to steal, use drugs, or even shoot at another. That may come out as rather blunt, but its true. Whether you like it or not, its illegal. if you don't like it do something to get it legalized. Don't just say, "The drinking age 21 is way too high. I can handle a drink and I'm 17. So I'm just gonna drink anyway." Well, when you get arrested for a DUI or something else, don't complain and cry. you knew the risks. you made a bad judgement call. My taxes that I pay should be to fix the roads in my city. Not to try to fix your crybaby attitude. I'm all for coaching and therapy when it is genuinely needed. Not to give you a "Get out of jail free" card. USA003
ReplyDeleteI don't really think it's enough, there's a lot of people from prison who does the same thing when they're released; but there are some who also come out of prison who changed or wants to change. Also a lot of prisoners are locked up for petty drug charges. For an example, there are prisoners locked up for marijuana; Marijuana isn't a hard drug in my opinion. Alcoholics should get more time than potheads honestly because a lot of alcoholics do a lot of crazy things when they're drunk. When have you heard of someone going to prison for doing something dumb and the cause is marijuana? Drug dealers are getting longer sentences than some criminals who did actual crimes.
ReplyDeleteKodak003
I believe that these recommendations are a good step for helping the criminal justice system. The step to lower felony sentences is a good step to help lower the amount of people who are locked up in our prisons. This will also help with the amount of money that we spend on these prisons and their inmates. I believe that having the criminal justice system go through racial training is a good recommendation as well. Having changes like these is a good step to helping improve the criminal justice system and have it change as people in society change as well. Changes like these will allow our criminal justice system and society to work together better. hawkshockey004
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteHelping our criminal justice system work better in conjunction with society would be a great improvement. Once of the biggest problems on society is the "dead weight" prisons can often be considering the inmates don't have the ability or opportunity to help out and contribute to society. Furthermore, with more reforms like this we can hopefully see the prison population continue to lower while hopefully crime rates don't rise too much in comparison. Ghost004
DeleteIn regards to the police community and all that involves it, this article is a great read. It is a fantastic thing to see people are reaching out and talking about the many issues within the criminal justice system and all that encompass it. One of the subjects being mentioned is the bias that police officers, judges, and many more in the criminal justice system have when dealing with criminals. They want to be able to recognize the racial and ethnic bias. I am not so sure that reducing the minimum sentences will be able to change the rate of incarceration or even the recidivism. Some people may believe that they will be able okay to go to prison for a crime that they previously would not have even considered. The benefits might outweigh the consequences. Rauner said in a statement, "This report is another important step in repairing our broken criminal justice system and safely reducing the prison population by 25 percent over 10 years." This rate seems a little unrealistic. I want to hope that in doing the things mentioned in this article, but only time will tell if what they are implementing will help. agentp001
ReplyDeleteAfter going through and reading the article twice, I seem to understand more of what the Illinois Criminal Justice System is trying to do. Prisons are becoming over-crowded. The people that are being thrown in to prison seem to follow a pattern. This is a prime example of just how prejudice and biased people can be towards those that commit criminal acts. Not only should the criminal justice system try and reduce the minimum sentences for felonies, it should also try and take care of it's people. There are people who are being thrown into prison for drug abuse, and they should really get the help and care that they need. If a person who is a drug addict is thrown into prison, and they do not get help, they 9 times out of 10 will resort back to their old ways. They will go back to using, they will go back to stealing, and raping, and murdering; and they will return to the prisons in much worse shape than after being released the first time. Governor Rauner is pushing to change the Criminal Justice System and wants to see a brighter future for all; one that does not involve spending life in prison. agentp001
ReplyDeletethis was actually agentp002
DeleteTodays criminal justice and prison systems are a major issue in modern society. They have been a huge burden on not only the taxpayer but also to the law enforcement members who must keep them in check. Thanks to Gov. Bruce Rauner, many new reforms and recommendations have been put forward. This includes lowering the penalties for certain felony charges and by helping prisoners get out earlier. Also, he has pushed new policies that help convicts once they are released. Since a large portion of the changes have been made, we have seen prison populations drop almost 10% since February of 2015.-Ghost004
ReplyDeleteIt's nice to see that something is finally being done with sentencing reform. It's been a long time and coming for the justice system to take a step in rehabilitation instead of just locking people of for years and not offering any help to better people just locking them up and forgetting about them. It will save tax payers money on prison's and jails and the money can be used for more important things. All in all these are good changes. Hopefully these changes will go into effect soon. It's good to see people taking notice. Sly.003
ReplyDeleteIllinois is going in a better direction by placing less penalties on those who mess up in our society by less harsh penalties will give opportunities for those who make a simple mistake to turn their lives around. Having alternative programs for these people could teach them how to correct their behavior or to help the victim their crime may have effected. I agree with the recommendation to have police officers, judges, and lawyers trained on their implicit and ethnic biases. This will definitely help with restoring as well as strengthening a trust between the criminal justice system and the citizens. Reducing the sentencing qualifications for felony drug crimes is another recommendation that I agreed with simply because I feel that people should really not even be incarcerated for drug related crimes. They need help to get over their drug addiction and sitting in a prison cell does not help them to rehabilitate. BMW004
ReplyDeleteI think we have similar views. As I stated on your comment you posted on the video about Obama's effect on our criminal justice system, I agree. I'm glad that we have separation of powers to allow states to have different laws then the nation. Which allows Governors like Rauner, to make laws for the people even if we can't have it on a national level. I've always felt the same way about drug-related crimes. I feel if people want to do that then other shouldn't be punished for assisting them with doing it.EGM003
DeleteI am pleased to see that our governor is not only aware that our Criminal Justice System needs reform but he has taken steps to make that possible. By addressing the implicit racial and ethnic bias in our Criminal Justice System he is rebuilding the trust between the people and the government. This is a much-needed change! I have always thought that some sentences for drug crimes are too extensive. It’s about time that our laws start to reflect the changes of society’s views. The halfway back program is a great way to get back on track to Rehabilitation instead of Retribution. Its an incentive that will help reduce recidivism because it gives a second chance to those who deserve it. I believe giving that extra power to judges will help to ensure the process. EGM003
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