The New York Times is publishing a series that examines the use of diversion programs, which are designed to allow people to avoid the harsh consequences of the criminal justice system for first-time and minor offenses. However, since these programs are run by local prosecutors, there is unequal treatment. Often, this leads to a substantially different treatment of poorer people. "After a Crime, the Price of a Second Chance" In the second part of the series, the paper takes

The Pew Research Center published a report that chronicles President Obama's grants of clemency during his time in office. Obama has granted more requests than any other President since Lyndon B. Johnson; however, the percentage of petitions granted ranks among the lowest of the past hundred years, ahead of only his predecessor, George W. Bush. "Obama has used clemency power more often than any president since LBJ" #Prison #Pardon #Commutation #Sentencing

Vox takes a look at President Obama's use of the pardon power to push back against years of policies that promoted mass incarceration, and also examines the prospects of the thousands of prisoners still waiting to hear about their petitions. "Why hundreds of people, not just turkeys, are celebrating the pardon power this Thanksgiving." #Prison #Sentencing #Pardon

Vox published an editorial from a public defender who argues that the push for tougher sentences will have unintended consequences that would affect the most vulnerable groups in society. "Get angry about Brock Turner's crime. But don't use it as a reason to pass bad laws." #MandatoryMinimums #Sentencing