Republican Gov. Charlie Baker has signed a major criminal justice reform bill that had overwhelming Republican and Democratic support, reported Boston Herald. “This is a huge victory for justice and shows what we can accomplish together,” said State Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz, (D-Boston). “Years and years of advocacy by community leaders, legislators and powerful Black and Brown grassroots organizers created a sea change in Massachusetts politics.” "The total drug-overdose deaths was 64,070 in the 12 months through January 2017.” The Wall … [Read more...] about Massachusetts Republican governor signs criminal reform
The Associated Press
San Francisco Sheriff Responds To Federal Immigration Policy
San Francisco’s newly elected sheriff says there are open enforcement questions about a new policy that gives federal immigration officials instead of local agencies priority over inmates wanted for deportation. Sheriff Vicki Hennessy said she awaits details on how the policy will be enforced, The Associated Press reported Feb. 24. Former Sheriff Ross Mirkarimi, defeated in the last election, had said he was bound by city laws barring cooperation with federal immigration officials. U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch told the House … [Read more...] about San Francisco Sheriff Responds To Federal Immigration Policy
CDCR Losing Battle in Disrupting Cell Phones in Prisons
The state’s prison system is losing its battle to disrupt cell phone use by inmates in its 34 facilities, The Associated Press reported. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) has so far failed in its attempt to block cellphone signals in the prisons, AP said. Because of rapid technological advances, the CDCR may have to shift gears and find new methods to combat illegal cell phone use by inmates. “It’s been difficult to make sure the technology can handle those upgrades,” CDCR spokeswoman Dana Simas told the … [Read more...] about CDCR Losing Battle in Disrupting Cell Phones in Prisons