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State way too caring toward criminals

The insanity in Albany continues. Let’s take a look at some of the insane programs that were placed on the New York state taxpayer.

¯ Twenty-four felons released into society, the attack on gun owners.

¯ Cuomo wants New York state to become a sanctuary state.

¯ The age of criminal responsibility raised to 18 is now in effect. Now 16-year-olds charged with offenses are out of the adult criminal justice system.

This is the first part of the raise the age law, which was passed last year. The second part of the state legislation will remove 17-year-olds out of the adult criminal justice system, which will take effect Oct. 1, 2019. According to the Chautauqua County district attorney, this new law will significantly impact the county’s criminal justice system. That means the taxpayers will be responsible for hiring more employees for this new system. It will plug up the juvenile court’s family court system. Under this new legislation, 16-year-olds charged with misdemeanors will have their cases tried in family court.

Those charged with violent felonies could possibly be sent to family court. If they caused significant physical injury to someone, used a weapon, or took part in a criminal activity such as sexual activity, my question is: what kind of sentence will these so-called youth receive? More than likely – none. What kind of burden will be placed on the county district attorney? A lot, and how much more of a burden will be placed on the county taxpayers? You see those in Albany don’t think about those problems. All they care about is those who broke our laws and how to be nice and place these criminals back onto our streets.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo stated that by raising the age of criminal responsibility, New York is putting an end to an injustice that falls disproportionately on people of color. That statement alone should be degrading to those African Americans and the Hispanic population.

Cuomo also stated that we will never stop fighting for a more equal and more just society. When was the last time Cuomo spent time in a courtroom to observe the victims and their families caused by those juveniles and others who were once considered adults? What a joke. Maybe Cuomo should show more concern for the victims of those crimes that were committed.

Richard Makuch is a Dunkirk resident. Send comments to editorial@observertoday.com

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