Proposition 5
shortens parole for methamphetamine dealers and other drug
felons from 3 years – to just 6 months.
Proposition 5
is strongly opposed by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)
because it provides a way for those who kill or maim others
while under the influence to avoid criminal prosecution.
Proposition 5
could provide, in effect, a “get-out-of-jail-free” card to
defendants charged with crimes e.g. domestic violence, child
abuse, mortgage fraud, identity theft, vehicular manslaughter,
insurance fraud and auto theft, letting them effectively escape
criminal prosecution altogether. If a violent offender is
granted a hearing using “the drugs made me do it” defense, the
burden of proof shifts to the prosecution to prove that the
defendant should be held responsible for his or her crimes.
Proposition 5
goes far beyond the drug-dependent individual; it also applies
to drug dealers. For example those found with up to $50,000
worth of meth would be treated the same as an individual user.
We need to keep focused on helping those who are drug-dependent,
rather than dealers profiting off addiction. Prop 5 treats meth
dealers the same as an individual drug user.
Proposition 5
is universally opposed by organizations representing
rank-and-file police officers, police chiefs, prosecutors and
parole supervisors because they know that shortening parole for
drug dealers will dramatically increase violent crime rates.
Proposition 5
sets up two new bureaucracies with no accountability, at a cost
of hundreds of millions.
Proposition 5
falsely claims that it will save money, but in fact, costs will
be shifted from the state to the counties, which may be forced
to raise taxes.
Proposition 5
proponents want voters to think this proposition is about
keeping non-violent drug offenders out of the prison system, but
that’s based upon a false premise. Today, no first-time offender
arrested solely for possession will be sent to prison –
ever. The real beneficiaries of Proposition 5 are drug dealers
and those accused of crimes such as domestic violence, child
abuse, identity theft, mortgage fraud, etc.
Proposition 5
undermines successful rehabilitation. Current rehabilitation and
drug courts are set up with defined goals and consequences –
these two elements are critical to effective rehabilitation
efforts.
