Hobo Jones asks Allan Dollison, Maggie Fleming, Arnie Klein, Elan Firpo…
Recidivism
The rate of recidivism (re-offending) in Humbodt County is very high. What do you think are the main contributing factors to recidivism and what would you, as District Attorney, do to reducse the recidivism rate?
— Hobo Jones
Responses
Allan Dollison
Recidivism in the California penal system has always been a problem. It does appear to be more acute here in Humboldt. A logical response is that once someone acquires a criminal record, they have little options in life, some (but not all) resort to a criminal lifestyle. I think with re-alignment, there are unfortunately increased chances for recidivism because the criminals on the street know there is no deterrent. The catch and release policy, and limited punishments handed out today encourages some (but not all) to commit crimes. I think where people make a mistake in life, they should be given the chance to redeem themselves. I would insure reduce and dismiss motions (called 1203.4 reductions) were not opposed if they qualified for them. This helps clear people’s records. Other policies like diversions, when appropriate, are good ideas so a conviction does not become a scar for life. I think that re-alignment has afforded more services, but we have not seen that substantially reduce crime. In fact, and in particular in Eureka, crime has shot up. More treatment options for drug addicts, job training programs, and ultimately placement in a program called Delancey Street, which lasts 2 years and really affords great opportunities are important keys to success. About a decade ago, then PM Tony Blair of the United Kingdom came to San Francisco, and saw one thing, Delancey Street, because he wanted to know how it was succeeding and how to implement it in his country. I would favor that opportunity more than anything, because I have seen how it turns around wayward lives.
Arnie Klein
The highest recidivism rates are found in sexual assault and child molestation cases. When convicted, it’s important to confine these people for as long as possible. When they seek to get out saying they are rehabilitated, fight tooth and nail to keep them in. I did the a vast majority of these types of cases for mentally disordered offenders, sexual violent predators, and not guilty of reason by insanity where they are claiming to be presently sane. I never lost one of these cases. I understand human nature.
I understand the flaws and frailties of man. As to people who are mentally challenged who commit petty thefts over and over again and drug addicts, there’s very little you can do but have them participate in a work program to benefit the community and help them seek treatment. We must start living in a world of reality rather than false hopes. “If wishes were horses, beggars would be riders.”
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