Rita Ighekpe is a current Junior attending Towson University, where she is double majoring in sociology and political science. She is the fundraising chair of the Towson Naturalistas and a member of the Student Environmental Organization. Her interest in criminal justice began in highschool, where she was an International Baccalaureate student and a member of the Model United Nations as well as Speech and Debate. Her involvement in these organizations broadened her knowledge on law and policy and resulted in her aspirations to work with the law.
The Sentencing Project held a webinar to discuss the problems of youth incarceration
Rita Ighekpe
Rita Ighekpe is a current Junior attending Towson University, where she is double majoring in sociology and political science. She is the fundraising chair of the Towson Naturalistas and a member of the Student Environmental Organization. Her interest in criminal justice began in highschool, where she was an International Baccalaureate student and a member of the Model United Nations as well as Speech and Debate. Her involvement in these organizations broadened her knowledge on law and policy and resulted in her aspirations to work with the law.
In the face of increased pretrial detention in The District of Columbia, a D.C. based think tank and advocacy organization hosted a webinar focused on why youth incarceration fails both kids incarcerated and the community surrounding them. The Sentencing Project, as described by Josh Rovner, director of youth justice, is an organization which “advocates for effective and humane responses to crime to, that minimize imprisonment and criminalization of youth and adults by promoting racial, ethnic and economic and gender justice.”
The speakers were Luis Ahmadi, from the Credible Messengers Mentoring Movement, as well as an employee of the D.C Department of Youth and Rehabilitative Services; Richard Mendel, the Senior Fellow of The Sentencing Project; Tawaina Reed, the Program Director of the Youth Advocate Programs (YAP), Inc; Karemma Williams, a YAP alumni, and life coach. It was moderated by Josh Rovner.
The seminar began on a positive note with Rovner sharing news about a general decline in youth incarceration as well as a decline in youth tried as adults. He emphasized that efforts addressing the issue have created tangible positive results.
Mendel highlighted the six essential failing of youth incarceration.
Youth who are incarcerated are more likely to reoffend than youth who aren’t, proving that juvenile incarceration doesn’t reduce delinquent conduct.
Youth incarceration damages the potential for future successes and the overall well being of the individuals that experience the process.
Juvenile detention facilities are often dangerous and abusive.
Unequal policing leads to disproportionate contact and incarceration of youth of color.
Incarceration conflicts with healthy adolescent development.
Youth incarceration exacerbates the trauma that led people into the system.
These failings and more reasons for the failures of the youth incarceration system are further elaborated in a paper published by the sentencing project on March 1, 2023.
The speakers shared their stories and experiences working with youth and what they found to be important. Kareema was part of a second chance program for juvenile offenders and Tawaina was assigned as her mentor.
Kareema began the program exhibiting low self esteem, and she suffered from bullying and other issues. While in juvenile detention she felt unsafe and like she didn’t belong there. Her experiences had made her closed off and trust was hard to achieve. With Tawaina she found support outside of her family, someone who was there to guide her and show her a positive path. Even when she left the program she still kept in contact with Tawaina and referred to her as a mother figure. Kareema is grateful to have experienced this, and it led her down a more positive path. Their story shows an important point: that youth need support. The webinar said that support and opportunities for growth are more effective than punitive measures such as incarceration which debilitates youth’s abilities to be effective members of society.
The Marion Barry Summer job program in D.C. was a ground breaking program mimicked across the country to stop youth gun violence, but results are mixed.
The Sentencing Project held a webinar to discuss the problems of youth incarceration In the face of increased pretrial detention in The District of Columbia,
Journalists Alex Coma and Mitch Ryals published an investigative story uncovering a criminal investigation of 19 D.C. police officers for misconduct while serving in a crime suppression unit. Originally an internal MPD inquiry, the investigation has since been upgraded to a criminal inquiry, with allegations including taking firearms without making arrests and filing false reports.
My name is Bernard Jemison and I will briefly explain my story. I’ve been incarcerated since May 13, 1998, over 25 years now for felony murder that should have been self-defense. I was sentenced to serve life with the possibility of parole in the Alabama department of corrections.
In mid-May, Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison gave his 90-day notice as he resigned as the city’s head cop. Less than a month later, Harrison during a press conference announced that he would immediately be stepping down from the role. Deputy Richard Worley had already been chosen and then took charge in the span of 10-hours. Later in an interview with Baltimore Banner, Harrison confirmed that it was “totally his decision.” This is one of the several high-profile departures from City Hall, during Scott’s administration. The Baltimore Banner (July 13, 2023)
Controversial Crime Bill In D.C.
D.C. City Council passed an emergency bill that some critics are concerned will disproportionately affect residents and lead to mass incarceration. The bill was passed in light of the rising crime in D.C. This year, the homicide rate is at 17% with 129 people killed and 500 people shot. Its critics have said that it will unfairly target Black people and will keep juveniles and adults jailed before pre-trial if charged with a serious crime. Despite their concerns and lack of research to back it up, Mayor Murial Bowser and supporters believe that it will have an immediate and positive impact in D.C. DC News Now (July 11, 2023)
D.C. Police Officer Guilty Of Repeated Sexual Assault Of Child
Charles Johnson was convicted of numerous child sex abuse charges, including multiple counts of first degree child sexual abuse, multiple counts of first-degree sexual abuse, second-degree child sexual abuse, and attempted first-degree child sexual abuse and assault. Johnson will be sentenced in October and faces life in prison. He has since been suspended from his position with the Metropolitan Police Department without pay and is in the process of being fired. If released, Johnson will be required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. NBC Washington (July 12, 2023)
Listening Session For Youth Crisis
Members of one Montgomery County community gathered together to address the youth crisis. The listening session was hosted by the Wheaton Urban District Advisory Committee and had speakers who worked on the front-lines of the crisis. The purpose of the gathering was to listen and give community members to voice their fears. County agencies were on hand with information about mental health and substance abuse resources. Montgomery County leaders said that this is the first of the many meetings they will host to tackle the youth crisis. NBC Washington (July 11, 2023)
Multiple Bills Passed Addressing Crime In D.C
I just witnessed the most disturbing thing in Mt. P.
This man, who’s handcuffed and has a bag over his head, hangs out in the neighborhood.
I asked the cops why they held him before I filmed this. They said because he’s having a mental health crisis, then declined other Qs. pic.twitter.com/BtVFTw3pR7
— Amanda Michelle Gomez (@amanduhgomez) July 10, 2023
The D.C. Council passed multiple bills aimed at addressing crime and accountability in Washington, D.C. One bill allows judges to hold individuals in jail before trial if they are likely to have committed a violent crime, targeting repeat offenders. However, council member Janeese Lewis George voted against the bill, expressing concerns about potential unjust imprisonment. Another bill requires the 911 call center to publicly disclose data on mistakes and dropped calls, increasing transparency and accountability. The Council also approved a bill permitting high speed car chases by D.C. police officers, with strict limitations to ensure public safety. Lastly, the Council unanimously passed a bill mandating an independent investigation into sexual harassment allegations against the former chief of staff to Mayor Muriel Bowser: John Falcicchio. Wtopnews (July 11, 2023)
D.C Sued For Poor First Response Protocol For Mental Health Crisis
Nonprofit organization Bread for the City, alongside the D.C. ACLU and law firm Sheppard Mullin sued Washington, D.C., for dispatching armed police officers as the default first responders to mental health crises. The lawsuit argues that this violates the Americans with Disabilities Act by denying people with mental health disabilities equal access to emergency care. D.C.’s community response teams, staffed by mental health professionals are understaffed and underfunded, resulting in less than 1% of mental health emergency calls receiving a response from these teams. In contrast, police officers who aren’t equipped to handle mental health crises, are often the first to arrive. The lawsuit cites instances where police responses have led to excessive force and harm. WAMU 88.5 (July 11, 2023)
Chairman Of The D.C Police Union Voices Support Of Emergency Crime Legislation
Gregg Pemberton, chairman of the D.C. Police Union, supports emergency crime legislation proposed by Councilmember Brooke Pinto but believes it is insufficient in addressing overall crime statistics. Pemberton blames progressive factions of the D.C. Council for a rise in violent crime and a decline in police recruitment. He criticizes bills he views as anti-police and pro-criminal and commends the council for finally discussing measures to hold criminals accountable. (July 11, 2023) Fox 5 Washington D.C
Wilson Family Lawsuit Against Fatal Shooting
The family of Lazarus Wilson, who was fatally shot by off-duty MPD Commander Jason Bagshaw at the Wharf in July 2022, has filed a $25 million lawsuit against the District, MPD and Bagshaw. The lawsuit claims that Bagshaw’s use of force was excessive and that his failure to identify himself as a police officer led to Wilson’s wrongful death. The family also accuses Bagshaw, the department, and the District of gross negligence. The suit seeks damages and requests the implementation of training protocols to prevent similar incidents. MPD declined to comment on the lawsuit. If not dismissed the case may take several years to go to trial. dcist (July 13, 2023)
D.C. substance abuse expert provides awareness to end stigma over the opioid crisis by demonstrating the use of Narcan and reconstruction tactics; Baltimore State Attorney published a ‘Do Not Call’ list of police officers in order to protect the integrity of the department; D.C.’s NEAR Act, despite providing more police data, has failed to lead…
New data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics shows the number of people sentenced to more than one year in prison increased in 35 states and rose 2% nationally. The recent surge in the U.S. prison population in 2022, as reported by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, has brought to light several concerning trends andContinue…
In Baltimore, the attorney general and public defender engaged in a barbershop tour to discuss mass incarceration and community investments. D.C. residents grapple with rising crime rates, prompting safety concerns even in past low-crime neighborhoods. A Ward 8 community crime walk aims to address escalating violence, the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ director emphasizes the need…
A Nebraska woman pleaded guilty to two felonies and one misdemeanor, after helping her 17-year-old daughter get an abortion in 2022. Her now 18-year-old daughter was charged as an adult for removing, concealing or abandoning a dead body and took a plea deal. She faces up to two years in prison. ABC News (June 7, 2023)
A new law will give a formerly incarcerated man in Oakland the opportunity to serve others, by creating a support network for those looking for a fresh start. The law will allow ex-felons to seal their criminal records. CBS Bay Area (July 12, 2023)
Teenagers are reportedly purchasing ghost guns and parts online. Experts are concerned at the ease with which they can now require deadly weapons. This comes at a time when the Biden administration is trying to rein in the use of ghost guns in violent crimes. Washington Post (July 12, 2023)
Jessica Burgess, a Nebraska mother, pleaded guilty to providing her 17-year-old daughter with pills for an illegal abortion after 20 weeks of gestation. Burgess also admitted to false reporting and tampering with human skeletal remains. After the abortion, Burgess and her daughter burned and buried the remains in a field. The daughter pleaded guilty to removing, concealing, or abandoning a dead body. Both women face sentencing, with Burgess scheduled for September 22 and her daughter for July 20. abc News (July 7, 2023)
On July 3rd Jarrell Garris, a 37 year old Black man was shot by police in New Rochelle, New York. Garris was accused of stealing fruit from a grocery store and the police claimed Garris attempted to grab an officer’s gun, leading to the shooting. Garris died in the hospital a week later. His family has filed a lawsuit, alleging excessive use of force and racial bias. The incident highlights tensions between law enforcement and Black residents in Westchester County and reflects broader systemic issues surrounding mental health and policing. The New York Times (July 13, 2023)
The Supreme Court declined to hear the case of Tony Clark. A Black death row inmate from Mississippi, convicted of murdering a 13-year-old during a robbery. His lawyers claim prosecutors unlawfully removed Black jurors during his trial. The decision drew dissent from the liberal justices, who accused the conservative majority of backtracking on their previous stance against racial bias. The court’s refusal to intervene raised concerns about its commitment to addressing systemic racial bias in the criminal justice system. The decision marked a departure from the court’s previous ruling in a similar case, fueling criticism of its approach to equal protection. NBC News (July 5, 2023)
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Publication: Incarceration gap between immigrant and US-born
Read: Life After Release holds annual Ocean City retreat
David Crawford, a former police chief in Laurel, Maryland, was sentenced to eight life sentences plus 75 years for a series of twelve arson attacks. Crawford set fires at homes, cars, and garages of his victims. In some cases, Crawford set homes alight while families slept inside. Prosecutors reported that he sought revenge against a number of victims who he believed wronged him over petty grievances. In 2011, Crawford had developed a target list and began igniting fires with gasoline across six counties in Maryland. Crawford was arrested two years ago after authorities linked him to the fires. The Washington Post (June 27, 2023)
Cities Set Curfew For Youth
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott announced that the city will enforce a youth curfew, after the shooting of two teenagers this spring. At a press conference, he said that this strategy is “about saving lives in every single way.” Since the beginning of the year, dozens of other cities and counties announced similar curfews for youth safety despite research that shows that the strategy is ineffective. Criminal justice reform advocates push back, arguing that these policies do not prevent violence and are potentially harmful for young people. They raised concerns about curfews leading to more interactions with police for Black and Latino teenagers. The Baltimore Banner (June 29, 2023)
Felony Disenfranchisement Laws
The American Civil Liberties Union sued Virginia and its Governor Glenn Youngkin to restore voting rights to felons. Virginia is one of the few states that automatically revoke voting rights for convicted felons unless the governor restores them individually. The lawsuit accuses Virginia of violating Reconstruction-era federal laws put in place after the Civil War. One plaintiff in the lawsuit was forced to apply to have his voting rights restored after spending 11 months in prison on a single 2018 felony drug possession charge. The plaintiff said, “I feel like I don’t have anybody to speak for me. I have no say on who represents me.” NBC Washington (June 26, 2023)
Incarceration And Homelessness
Formerly incarcerated Virginians are reported to be ten times more likely to face homelessness than their counterparts. Over 64,000 currently incarcerated Virginians will be vulnerable to housing insecurity once released. Shiri Yadine, the senior program manager for the Corporation for Supportive Housing, reported that race plays a significant role in this disparity. She said, “The system that has the most disparity is justice-involved youths. Black children in the commonwealth are eight times more likely to have justice involvement than anyone else.” She is advocating for more funding for supportive housing. Virginia Mercury (June 29, 2023)
D.C. Council Debates Controversial Crime Legislation
The D.C. Council held a hearing to discuss a proposed package of laws by Mayor Muriel Bowser aimed at addressing rising crime rates in the city. The legislation includes measures such as stricter penalties for gun related crimes, favoring pretrial detention and limiting early release for longer prison sentences. Over 160 people testified at the hearing. There was a divide between those advocating for tougher policies and longer sentences and those concerned about a return to failed “tough on crime” approaches. There was a consensus that the city’s violence levels had become unacceptable. The council will continue to debate and propose amendments to the bill in the coming weeks. DCist (June 27, 2023).
12 Arrested in Bust of Kennedy Street Crew
Twelve members of the alleged Kennedy Street Crew (KDY), an accused violent drug trafficking organization, have been arrested by federal law enforcement agencies and the D.C. police. The group said accused of being responsible for 19 shootings and seven murders along Kennedy Street NW in Washington, D.C. since 2021. Those indicted face federal charges related to drug and gun trafficking. There were significant amounts of fentanyl, cocaine, marijuana and firearms seized during the investigation. Additionally, the group is accused of using shell companies to launder money. The operation was conducted by the Violent Crime Impact Team. NBC Washington (June 27, 2023).
D.C Encouraging Public To Share Gun Tips
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, D.C., confiscated over 3,100 illegal guns in 2022, sourced mainly from states along the southern 95 corridor. Ghost guns, which lack traceable serial numbers are becoming increasingly prevalent. In order to curb this increase D.C. has raised the cash reward for tips leading to gun seizures and arrests, with a minimum of $1,000 and a maximum of $2,500. Tips related to ghost guns will receive a $5,000 bonus. WUSA9 (June 23, 2023)
The Acting Baltimore Police Commissioner’s 25 Year Track Record
Richard Worley, is the acting Baltimore Police commissioner and a nominee for the permanent position. Supporters highlight his deep understanding of the department, while activists emphasize the need for close examination considering the police force’s documented history of unconstitutional policing. Disciplinary summaries obtained through a public records request reveal several complaints against Worley, including traffic accidents and a complaint by a woman whose home was raided by police. However, the summaries only offer a limited view, and a complete Internal Affairs file would provide more information. Worley’s disciplinary history shows incidents such as preventable collisions and closed cases involving workplace conduct and alleged discrimination. The Baltimore Sun (June 29, 2023)
D.C. substance abuse expert provides awareness to end stigma over the opioid crisis by demonstrating the use of Narcan and reconstruction tactics; Baltimore State Attorney published a ‘Do Not Call’ list of police officers in order to protect the integrity of the department; D.C.’s NEAR Act, despite providing more police data, has failed to lead…
New data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics shows the number of people sentenced to more than one year in prison increased in 35 states and rose 2% nationally. The recent surge in the U.S. prison population in 2022, as reported by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, has brought to light several concerning trends andContinue…
In Baltimore, the attorney general and public defender engaged in a barbershop tour to discuss mass incarceration and community investments. D.C. residents grapple with rising crime rates, prompting safety concerns even in past low-crime neighborhoods. A Ward 8 community crime walk aims to address escalating violence, the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ director emphasizes the need…
In response to greater concern over gun violence, Denver schools are bringing back police officers. Parents voiced the need for police officers for the sake of their student’s safety. Critics, however, are worried that this will disproportionately hurt students of color. There has been overwhelming data showing that Black students are far more likely to be arrested than their white counterparts. The New York Times (June 27, 2023)
Florida’s Governor Ron Desantis has spent over 13.5 million dollars to recruit officers in other states who are frustrated by Covid-19 vaccine mandates. His incentive scheme has resulted in a slew of recruited officers with a history of excessive violence or officers who have been arrested since being hired. The Guardian (May 22, 2023)
Three San Antonio police officers were charged with the murder of Melissa Perez after responding to a call outside her house. She was accused of having a “mental health crisis” before her death. All three officers have been released on $100,000 bonds, Bexar County jail records show. The New York Times (June 24, 2023)
The Supreme Court overturned the conviction of an online stalker from Colorado, stating that threats on social media must show subjective intent to be punishable. Supporters claim the decision bolsters free speech protections, while critics worry about the implications for protecting people from online threats. ABCNews (June 27, 2023)
A report by the Department of Justice blamed the Federal Bureau of Prisons for the conditions that allowed sex offender Jeffrey Epstein to hang himself in his Manhattan jail cell in 2019. The report found that 13 employees within the Bureau of Prisons engaged in misconduct and negligence in their treatment of Epstein. The report also highlighted a pattern of troubling deaths in custody and systemic problems within the Bureau of Prisons. NBC News(June 27, 2023)
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Read: Essay about parental incarceration by 17 year old Joshua Martoma, one of the winners of the Annual Student Editorial Contest.
Read: Can cops smoke pot? Revamped legal landscape raises new questions for officers and recruits
Read: The argument against charge-based exclusions or “carveouts”
Read: Why life without parole in America is a cruel purgatory
Read : Reasons to oppose charge based exclusions in Reform
Read: feminist focus on punitive measures destabilizes supportive structures
Tweet: Inmates are dying in Texas prisons during heatwave; met with minor acknowledgement
After 4 years leading the Baltimore police force, former Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison announced his resignation on June 8th. Harrison remains on the city payroll without disclosure of the terms of his separation, and Mayor Brandon Scott’s administration has not provided the resignation letter or its date. Harrison was set to serve until March 2024 under a five-year contract, and the reasons for his resignation and the circumstances surrounding it are unclear. Mayor Scott named Deputy Commissioner Richard Worley as Harrison’s replacement. The Baltimore Banner (June 21, 2023)
Adnan Syed’s Lawyers Oppose Expansion of Victims’ Rights
Adnan Syed was convicted of the murder of his ex-girlfriend Hae Min Lee in 2000 and sentenced to life in prison. Syed’s conviction was initially overturned in 2022 due to withheld evidence and information on alternative suspects. However, the Appellate Court of Maryland later reinstated the conviction and ordered a new hearing. Syed’s lawyers are now urging the Maryland Supreme Court to reject a petition from Lee’s brother seeking to expand victims’ rights in the case. The family is requesting that he be allowed as a victim representative to participate in hearings and potentially challenge evidence and cross-examine witnesses. The role Lee’s brother seeks is not recognized in any state or federal court system. Syed has consistently maintained his innocence and is currently free pending the appeals process. The Baltimore Banner (June 22, 2023)
D.C Council Considers New Bill
The D.C. Council is considering a bill that aims to strengthen penalties for domestic and sexual violence cases. Introduced by Councilmembers Brooke Pinto, Zachary Parker, and Anita Bonds, the bill includes provisions to give prosecutors more power in certain cases. The legislation addresses gaps in the legal system and responds to an increase in crimes such as murder and sex abuse. The bill aims to improve prosecution rates by providing prosecutors with increased power and leverage. While some advocates support the bill’s provisions, others object to sections that could violate victims’ privacy. Critics argue that making piecemeal changes to the outdated criminal code exacerbates existing problems and advocate for a comprehensive revision instead. Despite the need for a complete overhaul, Councilmember Pinto believes it is important to make changes in the meantime, as Congress has blocked previous attempts to revise the code. DCist (June 22, 2023)
Short Staffing in Prince George
The I-Team uncovered that Prince George’s County jail has lost nearly one-third of its workforce since 2020. Correction officers report that short staffing is compromising safety within the jail for staff and inmates. One former officer spoke to News4 “It’s a runway machine, and we don’t have the wheels anymore.” Short staffed, the prison has forced officers to work overtime. In every local jurisdiction, corrections staffing is down.The significant number of those who left Prince George have gone to other different jurisdictions. In response, one corrections officer said “What does that say? It says it’s not the profession… It’s our county in particular.” Currently, the county is seeking to fill around 175 vacancies. NBC Washington (June 21, 2023)
Firearm Experts No Longer Testify Bullet Techniques
The Supreme Court of Maryland ruled that firearm experts can no longer testify a bullet came from a specific gun. Chief Judge Matthew Fader wrote the ruling, after recognizing that firearms identification has been unreliable in linking a particular unknown bullet to a known firearm. Three justices dissented on the decision, claiming that ballistic experts can produce accurate, repeatable, and reproducible results. Others have called it “a step in the right direction.” The ruling was made after a man appealed his conviction of first-degree murder and handgun offenses in the killing of his roommate. The Baltimore Banner (June 22, 2023)
Win for Reform Prosecutor
In Arlington County, reform prosecutor Parisa Dehghani-Tafti wins second term while the county board race remains undecided. The Arlington Democrat received around 56% of the vote, according to the unofficial results of the Virginia Department of Elections. Over 98% of early and day-of votes have been counted as of Tuesday night. Dehgani-Tafti built her campaign around reforming the county’s criminal legal system. She pushed for diversion and treatment for people accused of crimes and ending the practice of cash bail and prosecuting for simple marijuana possession. In a statement to DCist/WAMY, Dehgani-Tafti said “Tonight’s victory showed the voter’s renewed trust in us to continue that work.” DCist (June 20, 2023)
“It’s a Hate Crime”
The fatal shooting of Nicholas Mireles, his son Mario, and his friend Christian Segovia by a neighbor during a parking spot dispute has been labeled a hate crime by demonstrators. The shooter was a U.S. Army veteran who suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder. Over 200 people marched the streets of Annopolis to mourn the death of three Latino men. Julian Segovia, who lost his brother in a mass shooting in downtown Annapolis, has said “This senseless act of violence was racially-motivated. And we want the world to know.” Other protestors voiced their fears for her children and community. The Baltimore Banner (June 18, 2023)
D.C. substance abuse expert provides awareness to end stigma over the opioid crisis by demonstrating the use of Narcan and reconstruction tactics; Baltimore State Attorney published a ‘Do Not Call’ list of police officers in order to protect the integrity of the department; D.C.’s NEAR Act, despite providing more police data, has failed to lead…
New data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics shows the number of people sentenced to more than one year in prison increased in 35 states and rose 2% nationally. The recent surge in the U.S. prison population in 2022, as reported by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, has brought to light several concerning trends andContinue…
In Baltimore, the attorney general and public defender engaged in a barbershop tour to discuss mass incarceration and community investments. D.C. residents grapple with rising crime rates, prompting safety concerns even in past low-crime neighborhoods. A Ward 8 community crime walk aims to address escalating violence, the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ director emphasizes the need…
The intersection of alcohol and guns poses significant dangers, as research indicates that alcohol misuse increases the risk of gun violence and suicide. Alcohol impairs judgment and lowers inhibitions, leading individuals to make impulsive and dangerous decisions involving firearms. Studies have also shown that individuals with alcohol-related offenses, such as DUI convictions, are more likely to be arrested for violent or gun-related crimes. Efforts to pass laws regulating alcohol and guns have gained momentum in recent years. There is public support for regulations, including a federal gun ban for alcohol abusers. The Trace (June 21, 2023)
Starting July 1, over 700,000 incarcerated individuals in the United States will become eligible for Pell Grants, making higher education more affordable for them. Pell Grants are need-based financial aid from the federal government that do not require repayment and can provide up to $7,395 per academic year for college costs. These grants can now be used by incarcerated individuals in prison education programs (PEPs) to pursue professional certificates, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees from partner universities. DCNewsNow (June 19, 2023)
The New Hampshire judicial branch wants to provide mental health alternatives to incarceration. Commissioner Hanks has reported that up to 90% of incarcerated women in the state have a mental health diagnosis. They plan to implement training for judges and staff, hire a judicial health coordinator, and initiate sequential intercept mapping. WMUR (June 21, 2023)
Philadelphia’s District Attorney’s Office has reported and analyzed 290,000 cases, concluding that Black Philadelphians were more likely to be charged with felonies and over-assessed for risks. City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier acknowledged past policies that have left majority Black neighborhoods in Philadelphia with disinvestment and “set neighborhoods on a downward trajectory.” The Philadelphia Inquirer (June 19, 2023)
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Watch: Victim/Suspect chronicles journalists Rae de Leon’s investigation into a shocking nationwide pattern
Read: For nearly 30 years, only a small percentage of incarcerated people have been able to get college degrees.
Read: Emerging Adult Justice Project develops specialized units for young adults in correctional facilities that offer greater access to educational opportunities and mental health treatment
Tweet: Police raid on elderly man’s house but had “the wrong house”
Read: How mass incarceration destroys the lives of New York adolescents
Read: Challenges arise from an increase in jail population
