Law enforcement agencies oppose Proposition 57

Law enforcement agencies are banding together across the Central Coast to oppose Proposition 57, which would allow parole consideration and early release for some criminals convicted of nonviolent felonies.

Opponents claim if Proposition 57: Public Safety and Rehabilitation Act passes, it would bring a serious public safety risk by releasing prisoners serving time for leaving bombs at schools, assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, forcible rape, domestic violence, and sexual assault.

Supporters say it will stop the cycle of crime and save the state of California tens of millions of dollars a year, primarily due to reductions in prison population.

Among some of the dozens of agencies opposing Proposition 57 are: The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department, San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Department, Ventura County District Attorney’s Office, Atascadero Police Officers Association, SLO Police Officers Association, Pismo Beach Police Officers Association, and more.

“Dangerous for everybody, not only cops, but specifically people living in rural communities that are living by themselves…elderly people who can’t protect themselves from these people.,” said Officer Andrew Lucas with the Atascadero Police Association.

Not everyone is convinced. “I’ll vote for it. I think they should let people that are non-violent offenders that have been in prison for many years, they’ve done their time, be out,” said registered voter Charlene Hite.

Other supporters say that Proposition 57 focuses resources on keeping dangerous criminals locked up, while rehabilitating juvenile and adult inmates.

Learn everything about Proposition 57 including arguments in favor and against it by visiting http://voterguide.sos.ca.gov/en/propositions/57.

Gov. Jerry Brown is endorsing this proposition. You can vote on Proposition 57 on November 8.

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