[Source: “Justice center first, then other issues,” Press Citizen, 29 April 2013, by Katy Hansen] It is not a good idea to hold a new justice center hostage to a whole series of other issues such as incarceration rates, racial disparity and violation of rights. The solutions to space problems are not the same as […]
[Source: “New Vote,” Gazette Editorial Board, 28 April 2013] Just a few months after Johnson County voters declined to approve a bond to build a new justice center, the issue is back on the ballot for May 7. Although the proposal has changed slightly in response to critics’ concerns about size, cost and design, our […]
[Source: “CrimeStoppers supports center,” It has been known for some time that the Iowa City population is fast growing; however, we all may have become complacent as to the generally law-abiding behavior of our community. In 2007, the residents in a west Iowa City neighborhood were brought up short with a home invasion, burglary and […]
[Source: “Supportive of justice center, yet voting ‘no’,” Press Citizen, 25 April 2013] As distasteful as it is for me to be in favor of a larger jail, I support the justice center proposal. Yet, I will be voting “no” on May 7. Let me explain. I support those incarcerated having greater physical access to […]
[Source: “Vote ‘yes’ to improve space and safety,” Press Citizen, 19 April 2013, by Phil Leff] I have practiced law in Johnson County for 50 years. The old courthouse was an integral part of my practice and initially served the population well, but eventually became stuck in time. I am very familiar with its shortcomings. […]
[Source: “Johnson County Iowa – Incarceration and Racial Disparity – Causes and Solutions,” ResourcesForLife.com, 1 April 2013, by Greg Johnson] The justice system in Johnson County seems to be disproportionately arresting and incarcerating people simply on the basis of race. (Source: “Time to correct underlying causes of jail overcrowding,” Press Citizen, 31 March 2013) Once […]
