Governor Hogan has established the Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council in an effort to reduce Maryland’s prison population. The Council found that the average criminal sentence has increased by 25% in the last decade. 58% of prison inmates are serving sentences for non-violent crimes. Almost 60% of inmates are incarcerated for failures on parole and probation. Maryland lawmakers are calling for a reduction in expensive incarceration of non-violent offenders. Officials have recognized that taxpayer money should be invested in more effective and less expensive strategies.
The Council calls for sweeping changes in sentencing and probation and parole violations. Other recommendations include increased funding for substance abuse treatment, calling for expansion of the use of “8-505” Motions for Drug and Alcohol Evaluation and Treatment for incarcerated persons. The Council recommends services that help people successfully transition into the community such as day-reporting centers, halfway houses, and other proven therapeutic treatments.
The attorneys at Salvatore & Morton know how to use these changes to your advantage. Alternatives to imprisonment for probation violators and non-violent offenders are available. Our attorneys know what services are offered, what services to recommend, and how to access these resources. We know how to fashion an argument tailored to your specific needs. Get the advantage. Call Salvatore & Morton today.