Under the new program, those accused of minor crimes could trade their charges for substance abuse treatments, community service or participation in restorative justice initiatives.
While I commend the establishment of this program and view it as progress, no one should have to give their rights to go through this program. The accused should be offered a continuance or something similar and then if successful their case “disappears” and if not they get their day in court. The fact that they are forced to choose smacks of “Sophie’s choice”. Shame on big brother upps I mean the council.
Remember, this will be reviewed to make sure the process is working. I voted yes the way it was written as they are the pro's not me. I have made myself a calendar reminder to ask about it in the coming months.
While I commend the establishment of this program and view it as progress, no one should have to give their rights to go through this program. The accused should be offered a continuance or something similar and then if successful their case “disappears” and if not they get their day in court. The fact that they are forced to choose smacks of “Sophie’s choice”. Shame on big brother upps I mean the council.
Remember, this will be reviewed to make sure the process is working. I voted yes the way it was written as they are the pro's not me. I have made myself a calendar reminder to ask about it in the coming months.