WINNIPEG
The 'revolving doors' of justice
City Hall has ordered a study to examine how much time and money Winnipeg police spend due to the so-called revolving door of the criminal justice system. The study will look at the time and money spent on proactive monitoring and arresting or re-arresting of people who breach conditions of their bail, sentences or parole.
A report is due in 60 days. Coun. Gord Steeves, chair of the protection and community services committee, brought the idea forward. He said the goal is to get a better idea of the “catch and release” situation because of concerns that criminals who have court orders aren’t being supervised.
It’s not clear what will be done with the report when it is finished. The situation has been frustrating for police because many criminals re-offend hours or days after they are released on bail or a shortened sentence.
Point Douglas resident Sel Burrows spoke to the committee yesterday, and said its time would be better spent looking at ways to prevent crime. New sports and recreation opportunities for at-risk, inner-city youth is one example Burrows cited.
Chris Kitching
8 April 2008
http://winnipegsun.com/News/Winnipeg/2008/04/08/5226311.html