Archive for January, 2010

From freep.com

BY BILL SCHUETTE

Proposals that focus on those in prison or about to be released fall short when it comes to broad-based public safety reform. The focus of Michigan’s debate should be on how to improve the safety of Michigan citizens and families.

A report by the Council of State Governments makes clear why Michigan needs to reform its criminal justice system. In a comparison of Great Lakes states:

• Michigan has the highest rate of violent crime.

• Michigan has the highest rate of unsolved violent crime.

• Michigan has the fewest number of police officers per capita. In fact, Michigan has lost more than 1,900 law enforcement officers since 9/11.

• Michigan sends the fewest felons to prison per capita.

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