LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 10-25-12

Value of Family Justice Center
Editor: As the one year anniversary of the Family Justice Center approaches, I wanted to take a moment, on behalf of the Sonoma County Law Enforcement Chiefs’ Association, to acknowledge the practical and symbolic significance of the Center and the good work that has been accomplished there.
Prior to the opening of the Family Justice Center, victims of family violence had to visit many locations throughout the county to obtain comprehensive help, service and support. As you can imagine, that was often logistically challenging, especially for victims with children, and often resulted in victims giving up and remaining in abusive situations. Now, nearly twenty different service providers are co-located at the Center, making it a one-stop shop for confidential support, service and safety.
An additional benefit of the Center is its physical presence; a physical manifestation of the fact that family violence is not acceptable in Sonoma County. Often, victims feel alone, marginalized, and afraid. The Family Justice Center is a physical place where victims are surrounded by caring, supportive people, are safe, and know the perpetrators of the violence will be held accountable.
As law enforcement leaders, we know the importance of responding to the needs of victims. Partnering with the Family Justice Center has dramatically improved our ability to do so and we applaud the efforts of everyone who makes the Family Justice Center a safe and empowering place for victims of family violence.
Bret Sackett, President
Sonoma County Law Enforcement Chiefs’ Association
No on Prop 36
Editor: The Sonoma County Law Enforcement Chiefs’ Association urges you to vote NO on Proposition 36.
Proposition 36, known as the Three Strikes Reform Act of 2012, weakens the current Three Strikes Law by limiting the application of the third-strike sentence. The initiative also authorizes the re-sentencing of nearly 3,000 offenders currently serving a life sentence. When released, these inmates will become the burden of our local probation department and law enforcement agencies.
Under the existing three strikes law, offenders may receive a life sentence for any new felony conviction if the offender has two or more previous convictions for a serious or violent felony – crimes such as murder, rape, and robbery. However, Proposition 36 would allow some of these inmates to be released early and not serve out their properly imposed sentence. Historical recidivism data suggests that over 75 percent of these released felons will re-offend. This will put our communities at risk.
We believe the current law is working well because the District Attorney and judges can use their discretion appropriately in charging and sentencing Three Strikes cases.
Your local law enforcement leaders stand with Sheriffs, Police Chiefs, District Attorneys, and Victims’ Rights groups across California in opposition of this initiative and urge a NO vote.
Bret Sackett, President
Sonoma County Law Enforcement Chiefs’ Association