bail revocation, no expungement, sentencing reform, ‘raise the age’ repeal
by Guy Page
In the face of climbing homicide, aggravated assault, motor vehicle theft, identity theft, retail theft crime since 2018, Gov. Scott said at his press conference Jan. 14 that his administration will push four anti-crime measures in the Legislature.
Top of the list: more bail revocation, within constitutional limits, for repeat offenders.
Government must both protect civil liberties and promote public safety, and “we are clearly not striking the right balance,” Scott said. “The safety of the public comes first.”
A reporter noted that Vermont prisons are at 135% of capacity and may soon be asked by federal authorities to hold detained immigrants. Scott responded that the ‘catch and release’ serial offenders are a small number of people. Bail revocation and other measures may actually reduce imprisonment longterm. His policies may not require more prison beds, he suggested.
“Holding people accountable will be a deterrent. There’s nothing holding them accountable now,” Scott said.
He repeated that Vermonters are insisting on change.
“It will give comfort to the community,” Scott said. “John Q. Public doesn’t understand. And we’re trying to address that.”
The Scott administration also will push to change law allowing expungement of criminal records. Instead, records could be sealed, allowing people to find housing and jobs while still giving law enforcement access to criminal records.
And, Scott wants a new law limiting judicial use of suspended sentences for violent crimes. Too many judges are letting felons go free post-sentencing, including violent repeat offenders, he said.
The administration also will try to repeal the ‘raise the age’ law that as of April 2025 will allow 19-year-olds to be tried as juveniles.
Scott also said he wants the Department of Public Safety raised to a cabinet level agency.
