Pubdate: Fri, 12 May 2006
Source: Montreal Gazette (CN QU)
Copyright: 2006 The Gazette, a division of Southam Inc.
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/montreal/montrealgazette/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/274
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v06/n586/a02.html
Author: E.W. Bopp
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?199 (Mandatory Minimum Sentencing)

MANDATORY MINIMUMS WORK IN FLORIDA

Re: "Minimum sentences are not the answer" (Editorial, May 8).

Urging the Conservatives "to back away from mandatory minimum 
sentences" and concentrate instead on "effective crime prevention," 
The Gazette cites research by Thomas Gabor of the University of 
Ottawa and Nicole Crutcher of Carleton University alleging that 
mandatory minimum sentencing has left gun-related crime in the United 
States "generally unaffected."

In 1999, the Florida legislature passed sweeping legislation 
nicknamed "10-20-life" that provides for enhanced minimum mandatory 
prison terms and no parole for offenders who commit crimes with guns. 
In only six years, from 1998-2004, 10-20-life has helped drive down 
violent gun crime rates 30 per cent, even as Florida's population 
increased more than 2.5 million (16.8 per cent) during the same period.

With gun violence out of control in Toronto and Vancouver, tougher 
sentencing is needed to send a clear message to armed felons that 
Ottawa's tolerance is over. Legislation should also repeal the 1972 
Bail Reform Act, which has effectively prevented judges from keeping 
violent offenders in jail until they go to trial.

E.W. Bopp

Tsawwassen, B.C.
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman