Harmful Error - Investigating America's Local Prosecutors

http://projects.publicintegrity.org/pm/

This is a very interesting read. Although dated nearly 7 years ago, I'd bet the process hasn't improved, but rather it has worsen, especially in cases involving sexual abuse. These cases have been very prominent in the news lately and usually surround verbal allegations not backed by any evidence or substantiated time lines and statements. Merely the words of one against the other. The disturbing note is that we are starting to see the age of the accused, usually male, dropping into preteen and early teenage years. Many faced with these types of allegations can be subjected to multiple counts (over-indicting), facing dual digit years in prison and registry requirements that make punishment a life long event. Although many will plea out just out of fear of prison, some remain steadfast in their innocence and become wrongfully convicted based on natural prejudice and bias surrounding these cases. It is so important to understand that nobody wants to ever protect a real predator, but we must never lose sight of the presumption of innocence or to allow non-factual allegations to ever supersede the lack of factual evidence, placing an innocent person's liberty at risk.

This article touches on the many aspects surrounding prosecutors actions in their pursuit of fair and legal justice; or as some see it, the need to win at any cost! Be sure to click on all the links in this article, beginning with "Breaking the Rules" a commentary by Steve Weinberg. We say that "justice is blind", lending to a fair and just legal system. I find that it is important that the public NOT operate under the same premise when it comes to understanding how our legal system really operates in some communities. Knowledge is power. Just don't get blind-sided if it sneaks up on you and bites you or someone you know squarely in your backside!


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