Colorado voters approved Proposition 128, a ballot measure that increases the time an individual convicted of violent crimes must serve before parole eligibility and removes parole eligibility for those with two previous violent crime convictions. This measure aims to provide more certainty in sentencing and ensure that individuals serve a more accurate amount of time in jail. The proposition received over 62% of the vote, reflecting Coloradans’ desire for increased public safety measures.
Legal experts believe that the measure will benefit both crime victims and defendants by providing a clearer understanding of the time spent in jail. Specifically, the measure addresses issues of certainty in sentencing and public safety concerns within the criminal justice system in Colorado. With the implementation of Proposition 128, it is hoped that repeat offenders like Jonathan Bell, who was released early and committed more crimes, will no longer be able to slip through the cracks.
The Colorado District Attorneys Council anticipates the legislature may review the state’s sentencing guidelines following the passage of Proposition 128. There is concern about the cost of implementing the measure, which could result in adjustments or changes to sentencing laws that will prioritize public safety without jeopardizing other aspects of the criminal justice system. Overall, supporters of the measure believe it will lead to more honest and truthful sentencing practices, providing clarity to both victims and offenders in the justice system.
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