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Pennsylvania on verge of notable sentencing reforms

By Douglas A. Berman

As detailed in this local story and this AP account, important sentencing reforms are working their way through Pennsylvania.  Here are the basics from the local reporting:Nonviolent offenders could spend less time in prison if they complete educational programs and demonstrate good behavior, under legislation before Gov. Ed Rendell. Proponents say the measures represent the biggest sentencing reforms in Pennsylvania since violent-crime rates started building in the 1980s, leading to a flurry of tougher mandatory minimum prison terms and longer sentences. Supporters say the new measures should lower the risk of repeat offenses and help curb a 25-year trend of higher inmate populations and prison construction.... Most state law-enforcement groups have supported the package...continue to full post

Full post as published by Sentencing Law and Policy on September 23, 2008 (boomark / email).