The Governor has released his comprehensive criminal justice legislative package. Metairie Senator Danny Martiny will attempt to push several of the proposals. He says habitual offender laws keep people in jail for the rest of their lives if they commit three violent crimes, but streamlining parole eligibility for some of the lesser offenses could help reduce the incarceration rate…:
Cut 15 (10) “not be affected” 2x
Louisiana is known as the incarceration capital of the world, and Governor Edwards has said with that comes a significant price tag.

The state Department of Corrections recommended termination for eight Elayn Hunt Correctional Center officers for the use of excessive force on an offender, and the subsequent cover up of the incident. They said six resigned in lieu of termination. Officials say this type of behavior is not acceptable and these individuals don’t represent the 99% of dedicated employees who are committed to public safety and integrity.

A measure has been filed for the legislative session that would give convicted felons, who are on parole and have been out of jail for at least five years, the right to vote. Baton Rouge Representative Patricia Smith says these individuals are still citizens and want to contribute to society…:
Cut 8 (08) “of life”
Smith says taking away privileges for people who committed crimes solves nothing and only makes them still feel like prisoners.

The “I Voted” Blue Dog sticker craze is ongoing. Secretary of State Tom Schedler says so many people have been clamoring to get their hands on the prize for voting in the fall elections featuring the George Rodrigue art, they are even being auctioned on eBay. He says the cost was a small price to pay considering the exposure…:
Cut 5 (11) “I’ve been there”
Schedler says the Rodrigue family charged the state nothing for their part in the stickers.