what's the deal

 The state of Maryland is trying new methods to bring crime under control. All the progressive approaches and tactics have had little effect so far. But a new bill is being introduced to the legislator. This bill would not allow a plea deal to repeat offenders of violent crimes. There have been many cases of criminals repeating their crimes, if you can imagine that, while on probation, or shortly after being released with a plea agreement. So, this bill is an attempt to ensure these criminals serve time. It's a get tough on crime initiative. At least that's the narrative. No more making a deal for leniency. Personally, I'm all for it, I've never thought much of making a plea deal in the first place. If you can't do the time, don't do the crime is my motto. But this bill is being met with opposition. The Maryland state legislator is controlled by the Democrats. And surprise, surprise they oppose this bill. 

 Now the reason given for this opposition is what enrages me. The official statement is passing this bill would lead to more work for the states attorney's office. Yes, having to prosecute these criminals would simply be too much work and create a backlog. The most expedient way to deal with these criminals is to simply make a deal with them. The case can be resolved so much easier without the bother of testimony, evidence, or a balance in justice. These court cases aren't about the victims, they are about the crooks! That's the message that is being sent. The objective is not to punish the guilty, it is to rehabilitate them. Give them as many chances, as many opportunities as possible. They are trapped in a cycle of crime, and it isn't their fault! They are violent because they have no other choice! It's the system that is causing the problem. By punishing those that commit these violent crimes it gives them a record. Then when they get a record, employers are judging them and are hesitant to hire them. Without a job they turn to crime. If we simply quit locking them up, giving them a record, all that would end. All these criminals want is an equal opportunity to prosper in the community. 

 I'm no lawyer, no judge or justice. I don't work in law enforcement or criminal justice. But I'm thinking if you lock up the violent criminals, violent crimes will decrease. Too simple a concept? Maybe, but I'd sure give it a try. This bill is only addressing violent crimes like murder, rape, and assault. It is those crimes where a second plea deal would not be an option. It doesn't remove the opportunity for a plea deal with the first offense, just any subsequent offense. But to say no, that would cause too much work for the prosecutors is just ridiculous. It's too much work to enforce the law! I understand the premise that you are innocent until proven guilty. I fully support that. I also fully support law enforcement and whatever tools and resources they need to provide the evidence of your guilt. If that takes more prosecutors, I'm good with that. The victim should be as well represented as the criminal! The taxpayer is required to provide consul for the accused. That's fair enough as long as the victim has equal representation. Representation that simply makes a deal to settle the case isn't equal. I can tell you this much. If I were to hire an attorney and this attorney said, we'll just settle for whatever they offer, that attorney is fired. Is that what we should want for our states attorneys office? Just take whatever deal is offered and move on.