the chicago blackhawks defeated the tampa bay lightning 2-0 in game six to win the 2015 nhl stanley cup title in front of a raucous crowd of 22,424 fans in chicago's united center. the blackhawks' sixth championship in franchise history is their third in the last six years. the emerging dynasty was also victorious in 2010 and 2013.
the hawks' duncan keith was unanimously given the conn smythe trophy as most valuable player. keith scored once and led a dominant defense against a high-powered offense. "it feels so great. you want to keep being a part of these things. you don't get these awards without being on great teams with great players and like i said, i'm just proud to be a part of this group of guys who cares so much and do whatever it takes, keith said."
chicago's all-star center and captain jonathan toews raised the stanley cup over his head after the thrilling game. toews said, "we won it for each other, for the city. in so many ways, winning a championship like this in our home city, i think it really transcends the sport. everyone wants to be a part of it. it's amazing."
the hawks' all-star left wing patrick kane scored his first (and only) goal of the final in the second period. he also added an assist, helping his team clinch the cup on home ice for the first time since 1938. kane said, "just wanted to play my best game and control the puck as much as possible and try to step up for my team."
chicago goalie corey crawford, who was pulled from their first-round series against nashville, had 25 saves in his fifth career playoff shutout. this was the first stanley cup for kimmo timonen, who plans to retire. the 40 year-old defenseman was acquired in a trade from philadelphia - after he missed the start of the season due to blood clots in his legs and lungs. the hawks' record in game sixes is 13-1 since the 2009 playoffs.
i am
- mark j. tuggle
- harlem, usa
- same-gender-loving contemporary descendant of enslaved africans. community activist, feminist, health educator, independent filmmaker, mentor, playwright, poet & spiritual being. featured at, in & on africana.com, afrikan poetry theatre, angel herald, bejata dot com, bet tonight with tavis smiley, blacklight online, black noir, brooklyn moon cafe, gmhc's barbershop, klmo-fm, lgbt community services center, longmoor productions, nuyorican poets cafe, our corner, poz, pulse, rolling out new york, rush arts gallery, saint veronica's church, schomburg center for research in black culture, sexplorations, the citizen, the new york times, the soundz bar, the trenton times, the village voice, upn news, uzuri, venus, vibe, wbai-fm, wnyc-fm & wqht-fm. volunteered with adodi, bailey house, inc., black men's xchange-new york, colorofchange.org, drug policy alliance, east harlem tutorial program, imagenation film & music festival, presente.org, save darfur coalition, the enough project, the osborne association, the sledge group & your black world. worked on films with maurice jamal & heather murphy. writing student of phil bertelsen & ed bullins. mjt975@msn.com.
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Wednesday, June 03, 2015
40 Reasons American Jails and Prisons are full of Black and Poor People
the united states department of justice (doj) reports 2.2 million people are currently in our nation's jails and prisons. 4.5 million people are on parole or probation. one of every 35 u.s. adults is in jail, prison, parole or probation.
most people behind bars are black or poor. here are 40 reasons why...
1) crime rates have risen and fallen independently of our growing incarceration rates.
2) black and poor people are targeted by the police, who discriminate against both.
3) police traffic stops racially target people in cars.
4) black and latino motorists are likelier to get tickets than white drivers.
5) once stopped, black and latino drivers are likelier to get searched than white drivers.
6) traffic tickets are big business.
7) unpaid traffic tickets lead to jail time.
8) in schools, black kids are likelier to be referred to the police than other kids.
9) black kids account for 28% of total juvenile arrests.
10) despite using at the same rate, blacks are 3.7 times likelier to be arrested for possession of marijuana than whites.
11) the u.s. has much tougher drug laws and significantly longer sentences for drug offenses than most other countries.
12) the bail system penalizes poor people, who remain in jail, presumed to be innocent, awaiting trial, unable to pay to get out of jail.
13) the prison industrial system provides jobs to local, state and federal officials.
14) about 75% of people in jail are for non-violent offenses.
15) criminal bonds take in about $14 billion annually.
16) the rate of mental illness is four to six times higher inside jails than outside.
17) most of the people who need drug treatment in jail don't get it.
18) people who are chemically dependent, mentally ill and/or poor usually remain locked up until their trial dates.
19) poor people normally rely on public defenders, and many facing misdemeanor charges never see a lawyer at all.
20) public defenders are overworked and underfunded when they represent poor people with felony charges.
21) poor people plead guilty not knowing their legal rights.
22) guilty pleas are often coerced by police, leading to wrongful convictions.
23) over 95% of criminal cases are finished by plea bargains.
24) poor people are four times likelier to receive a prison sentence than those who got out on bail.
25) 75% of people imprisoned for drug offenses are black and latino.
26) in new york city, blacks are jailed about 12 times the rate of whites.
27) black males are imprisoned five times the rate of white males.
28) prisons are a lucrative private business.
29) blacks account for almost half of the people serving life sentences.
30) some telephone calls are as high as $12.95 for 15 minutes.
31) 3.9 million people are on probation.
32) 850,000 people are on parole.
33) as many as 100 million people have a criminal record, and over 94 million of those records are online.
34) arrest records and court records are easily accessible online, and 87% of employers conduct background checks.
35) employers are likelier to check the criminal history of black male applicants than white male applicants.
36) 180,000 women are subject to lifetime bans from temporary assistance to needy families because of felony drug convictions.
37) more than 60% of formerly incarcerated people are unemployed one year after being released.
38) the u.s. spends $80 billion on the corrections system annually.
39) jail creates poverty.
40) a criminal record serves as both a direct cause and consequence for poverty.
most people behind bars are black or poor. here are 40 reasons why...
1) crime rates have risen and fallen independently of our growing incarceration rates.
2) black and poor people are targeted by the police, who discriminate against both.
3) police traffic stops racially target people in cars.
4) black and latino motorists are likelier to get tickets than white drivers.
5) once stopped, black and latino drivers are likelier to get searched than white drivers.
6) traffic tickets are big business.
7) unpaid traffic tickets lead to jail time.
8) in schools, black kids are likelier to be referred to the police than other kids.
9) black kids account for 28% of total juvenile arrests.
10) despite using at the same rate, blacks are 3.7 times likelier to be arrested for possession of marijuana than whites.
11) the u.s. has much tougher drug laws and significantly longer sentences for drug offenses than most other countries.
12) the bail system penalizes poor people, who remain in jail, presumed to be innocent, awaiting trial, unable to pay to get out of jail.
13) the prison industrial system provides jobs to local, state and federal officials.
14) about 75% of people in jail are for non-violent offenses.
15) criminal bonds take in about $14 billion annually.
16) the rate of mental illness is four to six times higher inside jails than outside.
17) most of the people who need drug treatment in jail don't get it.
18) people who are chemically dependent, mentally ill and/or poor usually remain locked up until their trial dates.
19) poor people normally rely on public defenders, and many facing misdemeanor charges never see a lawyer at all.
20) public defenders are overworked and underfunded when they represent poor people with felony charges.
21) poor people plead guilty not knowing their legal rights.
22) guilty pleas are often coerced by police, leading to wrongful convictions.
23) over 95% of criminal cases are finished by plea bargains.
24) poor people are four times likelier to receive a prison sentence than those who got out on bail.
25) 75% of people imprisoned for drug offenses are black and latino.
26) in new york city, blacks are jailed about 12 times the rate of whites.
27) black males are imprisoned five times the rate of white males.
28) prisons are a lucrative private business.
29) blacks account for almost half of the people serving life sentences.
30) some telephone calls are as high as $12.95 for 15 minutes.
31) 3.9 million people are on probation.
32) 850,000 people are on parole.
33) as many as 100 million people have a criminal record, and over 94 million of those records are online.
34) arrest records and court records are easily accessible online, and 87% of employers conduct background checks.
35) employers are likelier to check the criminal history of black male applicants than white male applicants.
36) 180,000 women are subject to lifetime bans from temporary assistance to needy families because of felony drug convictions.
37) more than 60% of formerly incarcerated people are unemployed one year after being released.
38) the u.s. spends $80 billion on the corrections system annually.
39) jail creates poverty.
40) a criminal record serves as both a direct cause and consequence for poverty.
Tuesday, June 02, 2015
Reparations for Slave Owners in America
according to the national archives and records administration, the district of columbia emancipation act paved the way to compensate slave owners. they were paid handsomely for their "loyalty to the union," and for the loss of income they incurred by freeing enslaved africans.
on april 16, 1862, president abraham lincoln signed a bill ending slavery in the district of columbia. passage of this historic law came eight and a half months before the commander-in-chief issued his provocative emancipation proclamation.
the act ended what anti-slavery advocates called the "national shame" of slavery in the nation's capitol. it provided for immediate emancipation, compensation to former owners loyal to the union up to $300 for each freed enslaved african, voluntary colonization of former enslaved africans to locations outside the u.s., and payments up to $100 for each person choosing emigration.
over the next nine months, the board of commissioners appointed to administer the act would approve 930 petitions - completely or in part - from former slave owners for the freedom of 2,989 formerly enslaved africans.
on april 16, 1862, president abraham lincoln signed a bill ending slavery in the district of columbia. passage of this historic law came eight and a half months before the commander-in-chief issued his provocative emancipation proclamation.
the act ended what anti-slavery advocates called the "national shame" of slavery in the nation's capitol. it provided for immediate emancipation, compensation to former owners loyal to the union up to $300 for each freed enslaved african, voluntary colonization of former enslaved africans to locations outside the u.s., and payments up to $100 for each person choosing emigration.
over the next nine months, the board of commissioners appointed to administer the act would approve 930 petitions - completely or in part - from former slave owners for the freedom of 2,989 formerly enslaved africans.
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Republican Maryland Governor Vetoes Bill to Restore Voting Rights to about 40,000 people
maryland republican governor larry hogan vetoed a bill to restore voting rights to people immediately after prison, rather than waiting until they've completed parole or probation. the bill would have an impacted an estimated 40,000 disenfranchised people.
the senate passed the measure with the minimum votes needed to override a veto, but the house was just two votes short of an override. governor hogan wrote a provocative letter to legislative leaders expressing his views about the bill.
hogan said restoring voting rights to people after they have completed parole or probation, "achieves the proper balance between repayment of obligations to society for a felony conviction and the restoration of the various restricted rights."
communities united, a social justice advocacy group supporting the progressive measure, criticized the veto. the group said, "governor hogan has learned nothing from the uprising in baltimore and what the city and state residents needs. freddie gray's west baltimore neighborhood has the highest rate of disenfranchisement in the state. former felons need a voice and the ability to influence what happens in their communities and lives."
democratic senator joan carter conway says she needs to gather just a handful of votes in each chamber to override the veto when the general assembly convenes next january.
the senate passed the measure with the minimum votes needed to override a veto, but the house was just two votes short of an override. governor hogan wrote a provocative letter to legislative leaders expressing his views about the bill.
hogan said restoring voting rights to people after they have completed parole or probation, "achieves the proper balance between repayment of obligations to society for a felony conviction and the restoration of the various restricted rights."
communities united, a social justice advocacy group supporting the progressive measure, criticized the veto. the group said, "governor hogan has learned nothing from the uprising in baltimore and what the city and state residents needs. freddie gray's west baltimore neighborhood has the highest rate of disenfranchisement in the state. former felons need a voice and the ability to influence what happens in their communities and lives."
democratic senator joan carter conway says she needs to gather just a handful of votes in each chamber to override the veto when the general assembly convenes next january.
Sunday, May 24, 2015
Senate Passes Historic Bipartisan Medical Marijuana Bill for Veterans
the senate appropriations committee passed a bipartisan amendment yesterday. the historic measure allows veterans administration (va) doctors to recommend medical marijuana to their patients in states where medical marijuana is legal. the vote was 18-12.
"veterans in medical marijuana states should be treated the same as any other resident, and should be able to discuss marijuana with their doctor and use it if it's medically necessary. they have served this country valiantly, so the least we can do is allow them to have full and open discussions with their doctors," said michael collins, drug policy alliance policy manager.
the veterans equal access amendment was sponsored by senator steve daines (r-mont) and senator jeff merkley (d-ore). it was added in committee to a must-pass military construction and veterans affairs spending bill. the bill is expected to pass on the senate floor.
t.j. thompson, a disabled navy veteran said, "veterans see this victory as a major step forward in restoring our first amendment rights within the va. this will allow for a safe, open dialogue between providers and patients, and allows veterans to be treated the same as any patient."
in 2002, the ninth circuit court of appeals affirmed in conant v. walters the right of physicians to recommend medical marijuana, regardless of its illegality under federal law, as well as the right of patients to receive accurate information.
currently, the department of veterans affairs specifically prohibits its medical providers from completing forms brought by their patients seeking recommendations or opinions regarding participation in a state medical marijuana program.
there are numerous federal health care programs besides the va, such as medicaid, medicare and chip - but only the va prohibits physicians from discussing and recommending medical marijuana to their patients. a medicare patient may freely discuss medical marijuana use with their doctor, but a returning veteran is denied the same right.
studies show medical marijuana helps treat post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury, two illnesses typically suffered by veterans. last year, a study (by the new mexico medical cannibas program) of people with ptsd showed a greater than 75% reduction in severity of symptoms when patients were using marijuana to treat their illness, compared to when they were not.
in 2014, the u.s. house voted five times in favor of letting states set their own marijuana policies. one of the amendments, prohibiting the justice department from spending any money in fiscal year 2015 undermining state medical marijuana laws, made it into the final spending bill signed into law by president obama.
"veterans in medical marijuana states should be treated the same as any other resident, and should be able to discuss marijuana with their doctor and use it if it's medically necessary. they have served this country valiantly, so the least we can do is allow them to have full and open discussions with their doctors," said michael collins, drug policy alliance policy manager.
the veterans equal access amendment was sponsored by senator steve daines (r-mont) and senator jeff merkley (d-ore). it was added in committee to a must-pass military construction and veterans affairs spending bill. the bill is expected to pass on the senate floor.
t.j. thompson, a disabled navy veteran said, "veterans see this victory as a major step forward in restoring our first amendment rights within the va. this will allow for a safe, open dialogue between providers and patients, and allows veterans to be treated the same as any patient."
in 2002, the ninth circuit court of appeals affirmed in conant v. walters the right of physicians to recommend medical marijuana, regardless of its illegality under federal law, as well as the right of patients to receive accurate information.
currently, the department of veterans affairs specifically prohibits its medical providers from completing forms brought by their patients seeking recommendations or opinions regarding participation in a state medical marijuana program.
there are numerous federal health care programs besides the va, such as medicaid, medicare and chip - but only the va prohibits physicians from discussing and recommending medical marijuana to their patients. a medicare patient may freely discuss medical marijuana use with their doctor, but a returning veteran is denied the same right.
studies show medical marijuana helps treat post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury, two illnesses typically suffered by veterans. last year, a study (by the new mexico medical cannibas program) of people with ptsd showed a greater than 75% reduction in severity of symptoms when patients were using marijuana to treat their illness, compared to when they were not.
in 2014, the u.s. house voted five times in favor of letting states set their own marijuana policies. one of the amendments, prohibiting the justice department from spending any money in fiscal year 2015 undermining state medical marijuana laws, made it into the final spending bill signed into law by president obama.
Thursday, May 21, 2015
2015 All-NBA and All-NBA Defensive Teams
2015 all-nba first team
guard - stephen curry, golden state warriors.
guard - james harden, houston rockets.
forward - lebron james, cleveland cavaliers.
forward - anthony davis, new orleans pelicans.
center - marc gasol. memphis grizzlies.
2015 all-nba second team
guard - russell westbrook, oklahoma city thunder.
guard - chris paul, los angeles clippers.
forward - lamarcus aldridge, portland trailblazers.
forward- demarcus cousins, sacramento kings.
center - pau gasol, chicago bulls.
2015 all-nba third team
guard - kyrie irving, cleveland cavaliers.
guard - klay thompson, golden state warriors.
forward - blake griffin, los angeles clippers.
forward - tim duncan, san antonio spurs.
center - deandre jordan, los angeles clippers.
2015 nba all-defensive first team
guard - chris paul, los angeles clippers.
guard - tony allen, memphis grizzlies.
forward - kawhi leonard, san antonio spurs.
forward - draymond green, golden state warriors.
center - deandre jordan, los angeles clippers.
2015 nba all-defensive second team
guard - jimmy butler, chicago bulls.
guard - john wall, washington wizards.
forward - anthony davis, new orleans pelicans.
forward - tim duncan, san antonio spurs.
center - andrew bogut, golden state warriors.
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
Population at Youth Facilities Cut 50% Since 1999
new figures were released from the office of juvenile justice and delinquency prevention (ojjdp). the united states experienced a 50% decline in youth placed in residential facilities since 1999, totaling 54,148 in 2013. the data proves lower youth crime rates reduce states' institutional populations.
despite the encouraging news, racial disparities persist. black youth comprise 40% of detained youth. the decades-long trend of disproportionate detention for black youth is troubling and underscores the need to reauthorize the juvenile justice and delinquency prevention act (jjdpa).
senators charles grassley (r-iowa) and shedlon whitehouse (d-rhode island) have introduced sb 1169 to reauthorize the jjdpa. the grassley-whitehouse bill intends to strengthen an important requirement of the jjdpa by mandating states to identify and reduce ethnic and racial inequities at various points of contact with the justice system.
despite the encouraging news, racial disparities persist. black youth comprise 40% of detained youth. the decades-long trend of disproportionate detention for black youth is troubling and underscores the need to reauthorize the juvenile justice and delinquency prevention act (jjdpa).
senators charles grassley (r-iowa) and shedlon whitehouse (d-rhode island) have introduced sb 1169 to reauthorize the jjdpa. the grassley-whitehouse bill intends to strengthen an important requirement of the jjdpa by mandating states to identify and reduce ethnic and racial inequities at various points of contact with the justice system.
Thursday, May 07, 2015
2015 KIA NBA Performance Awards
the 2015 kia nba performance award winners are listed below:
most valuable player - stephen curry, golden state warriors.
rookie of the year - andrew wiggins, minnesota timberwolves.
defensive player of the year - kawhi leonard, san antonio spurs.
most improved player of the year - jimmy butler, chicago bulls.
sixth man of the year - lou williams, toronto raptors.
coach of the year - mike budenholzer, atlanta hawks.
executive of the year - bob myers, golden state warriors.
sportsman of the year - kyle korver, atlanta hawks.
most valuable player - stephen curry, golden state warriors.
rookie of the year - andrew wiggins, minnesota timberwolves.
defensive player of the year - kawhi leonard, san antonio spurs.
most improved player of the year - jimmy butler, chicago bulls.
sixth man of the year - lou williams, toronto raptors.
coach of the year - mike budenholzer, atlanta hawks.
executive of the year - bob myers, golden state warriors.
sportsman of the year - kyle korver, atlanta hawks.
Sunday, May 03, 2015
Mayweather defeats Pacquiao in 12 rounds by unanimous decision
floyd mayweather on saturday emerged victorious after 12 rounds in a hard-fought, competitive and technically sound win over manny pacquiao in "the fight of the century." judge dave moretti scored the bout 118-110, while both burt clements and glenn feldman had it 116-112.
the mgm grand garden arena in las vegas, nevada was jam packed and sold out with athletes, celebrities and musicians from around the world in the house. the commentary was shared by hbo and showtime on the second ever joint pay-per-view (ppv) telecast between the networks, as were the ring announcing duties.
the event is expected to shatter every revenue and ppv buy rate record, with upward of $300 million and 3 million buys in play. the welterweight battle cost a record $99.99 in high definition. ringside tickets were sold for $10,000 - none of the seats were open to the general public.
mayweather's (48-0, 26 KOs) previous 13 opponents connected on an average of 19% of their punches against him. pacquiao (57-6-2, 38 KOs) connected on 19% of his punches against him last night. afterwards, mayweather said, "when the history books are written, this fight will have been worth the wait."
hbo ringside analyst roy jones, jr. said pacquiao looked about 10 mph slower than mayweather. pacquiao's hall of fame trainer freddie roach thought his charge fought too flatfooted most of the night. george foreman calls mayweather a defensive genius. but pacquiao, 36, felt he moved around too much. pacquiao said, "if he would've stayed in one place i could've thrown more punches."
mayweather, 38, picked up a fifth title belt against pacquiao. he's won championships in five weight classes spanning his impeccable career (130 pounds, 135, 140, 147 and 154). mayweather beat victor ortiz in september, 2011, miguel cotto in may, 2012, canelo alvarez in september, 2013 and marcos maidano in may, 2014.
at a press conference on sunday, mayweather vowed to relinquish all of his belts on monday. he said, "i want to give other fighters a chance. i'm not greedy. i'm fortunate to be a champion in two weight classes right now. i'm the undisputed welterweight champion. i have the wbc and wba belt at super welterweight. i have the wbo, wba and wbc at 147. it's time to let other fighters fight for the belts."
mayweather says his final fight will take place in september. in addition to creating an opportunity for young boxers, he will avoid the sanctioning fees which accompany a title defense. the fight will be 12 rounds. if he wins, mayweather intends to retire with a 49-0 career record - tying rocky marciano, internationally respected one of the greatest boxers in history.
the mgm grand garden arena in las vegas, nevada was jam packed and sold out with athletes, celebrities and musicians from around the world in the house. the commentary was shared by hbo and showtime on the second ever joint pay-per-view (ppv) telecast between the networks, as were the ring announcing duties.
the event is expected to shatter every revenue and ppv buy rate record, with upward of $300 million and 3 million buys in play. the welterweight battle cost a record $99.99 in high definition. ringside tickets were sold for $10,000 - none of the seats were open to the general public.
mayweather's (48-0, 26 KOs) previous 13 opponents connected on an average of 19% of their punches against him. pacquiao (57-6-2, 38 KOs) connected on 19% of his punches against him last night. afterwards, mayweather said, "when the history books are written, this fight will have been worth the wait."
hbo ringside analyst roy jones, jr. said pacquiao looked about 10 mph slower than mayweather. pacquiao's hall of fame trainer freddie roach thought his charge fought too flatfooted most of the night. george foreman calls mayweather a defensive genius. but pacquiao, 36, felt he moved around too much. pacquiao said, "if he would've stayed in one place i could've thrown more punches."
mayweather, 38, picked up a fifth title belt against pacquiao. he's won championships in five weight classes spanning his impeccable career (130 pounds, 135, 140, 147 and 154). mayweather beat victor ortiz in september, 2011, miguel cotto in may, 2012, canelo alvarez in september, 2013 and marcos maidano in may, 2014.
at a press conference on sunday, mayweather vowed to relinquish all of his belts on monday. he said, "i want to give other fighters a chance. i'm not greedy. i'm fortunate to be a champion in two weight classes right now. i'm the undisputed welterweight champion. i have the wbc and wba belt at super welterweight. i have the wbo, wba and wbc at 147. it's time to let other fighters fight for the belts."
mayweather says his final fight will take place in september. in addition to creating an opportunity for young boxers, he will avoid the sanctioning fees which accompany a title defense. the fight will be 12 rounds. if he wins, mayweather intends to retire with a 49-0 career record - tying rocky marciano, internationally respected one of the greatest boxers in history.
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
WNBA All-Star Britney Griner Pleads Guilty to Disorderly Conduct
wnba all-star britney griner accepted a plea deal following her arrest on april 22 for disorderly conduct and suspicion of assault. griner, who plays center for the phoenix mercury, will enter a diversion program, said her attorney david michael cantor on tuesday.
griner, 24, plead guilty to disorderly conduct. she will attend 26 weeks of domestic violence counseling - and upon completion all charges will be dropped. griner voluntarily began counseling the day after her arrest, and is cooperating with the league's investigation into the matter.
a verbal argument between griner and her fiancee, glory johnson, turned physical. the incident led to minor injuries in their goodyear, arizona home. both were seen "throwing things at each other, and several people inside the home tried to break up the fight," before authorities were called, the police report noted.
griner and johnson were both arrested on assault and disorderly conduct allegations. yet, neither of the women desired prosecution. the popular basketball couple were subsequently booked into the maricopa county jail in downtown phoenix, and later released.
"it is never ok for an argument to turn physical. this will never happen again, and i take my relationship and my responsibility as a role model seriously. i am committed to making positive changes and i plan to use what i have learned to set a good example and help make a difference in the world around me," griner said.
last year, in addition to leading her squad to a title and being named the starting center on the western all-star team (despite nagging injuries), griner was named the wnba defensive player of the year. johnson, 24, was a forward with the much improved tulsa shock in 2014. the pair announced their engagement last summer.
griner, 24, plead guilty to disorderly conduct. she will attend 26 weeks of domestic violence counseling - and upon completion all charges will be dropped. griner voluntarily began counseling the day after her arrest, and is cooperating with the league's investigation into the matter.
a verbal argument between griner and her fiancee, glory johnson, turned physical. the incident led to minor injuries in their goodyear, arizona home. both were seen "throwing things at each other, and several people inside the home tried to break up the fight," before authorities were called, the police report noted.
griner and johnson were both arrested on assault and disorderly conduct allegations. yet, neither of the women desired prosecution. the popular basketball couple were subsequently booked into the maricopa county jail in downtown phoenix, and later released.
"it is never ok for an argument to turn physical. this will never happen again, and i take my relationship and my responsibility as a role model seriously. i am committed to making positive changes and i plan to use what i have learned to set a good example and help make a difference in the world around me," griner said.
last year, in addition to leading her squad to a title and being named the starting center on the western all-star team (despite nagging injuries), griner was named the wnba defensive player of the year. johnson, 24, was a forward with the much improved tulsa shock in 2014. the pair announced their engagement last summer.
Friday, April 24, 2015
Loretta Lynch confirmed as first black female U.S. Attorney General
the u.s. senate on thursday voted to approve loretta lynch as the next u.s. attorney general. lynch becomes the nation's first black female top law enforcement official. the historic confirmation took five months - longer than the last seven attorney generals combined.
lynch, 55, was approved by a 56-43 vote. ten republicans cast their ballots for lynch, including senate majority leader mitch mcconnell. she expects to begin serving as head of the u.s. justice department on monday, replacing eric holder, the first black attorney general.
many republicans who voted against lynch vehemently disliked her support of president obama's executive order issued in november. the controversial order was meant to shield millions of undocumented immigrants from the threat of deportation.
republican senator jeff sessions, an outspoken critic of the order, said, "we do not have to confirm someone to the highest law enforcement position in america if that someone is publicly committed to denigrating congress, violating law."
senate democratic leader harry reid chided republicans for delaying the vote. reid said lynch was "as qualified a candidate" as he'd seen in almost 30 years in the senate. lynch has awaited confirmation since last november when obama, a fellow harvard law school graduate, nominated her.
lynch will likely handle some civil rights cases involving recent fatal incidents between white male police officers and unarmed black males in several cities. the justice department said it will assess possible civil rights charges against cops in maryland. freddie gray, 25, died on sunday in baltimore after sustaining a spinal cord injury while in police custody.
lynch, 55, was approved by a 56-43 vote. ten republicans cast their ballots for lynch, including senate majority leader mitch mcconnell. she expects to begin serving as head of the u.s. justice department on monday, replacing eric holder, the first black attorney general.
many republicans who voted against lynch vehemently disliked her support of president obama's executive order issued in november. the controversial order was meant to shield millions of undocumented immigrants from the threat of deportation.
republican senator jeff sessions, an outspoken critic of the order, said, "we do not have to confirm someone to the highest law enforcement position in america if that someone is publicly committed to denigrating congress, violating law."
senate democratic leader harry reid chided republicans for delaying the vote. reid said lynch was "as qualified a candidate" as he'd seen in almost 30 years in the senate. lynch has awaited confirmation since last november when obama, a fellow harvard law school graduate, nominated her.
lynch will likely handle some civil rights cases involving recent fatal incidents between white male police officers and unarmed black males in several cities. the justice department said it will assess possible civil rights charges against cops in maryland. freddie gray, 25, died on sunday in baltimore after sustaining a spinal cord injury while in police custody.
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
John Legend announces campaign to end mass incarceration in america
grammy-winning singer john legend wants to end mass incarceration. legend announced on monday the multi-year initiative, free america. he'll visit and perform at a correctional facility on thursday in austin, texas; where he'll also take part in a press conference with state legislators to discuss texas' criminal justice system.
legend said, "we have a serious problem with incarceration in this country. it's destroying families, it's destroying communities and we're the most incarcerated country in the world, and when you look deeper and look at the reasons we go to this place, we as a society made some choices politically and legislatively, culturally to deal with poverty, deal with mental illness in a certain way, and that way usually involves using incarceration."
legend, 36, will also visit a california state prison and co-host a criminal justice event with politico in washington, d.c. later this month. the campaign will include participation from other artists - to be announced - and various organizations committed to ending mass incarceration.
legend's speech at the oscars this year resonated with people who share his views. he won best original song for "glory" from the film selma, with actor/rapper common. "i'm just trying to create some more awareness on this issue and trying to make some real change legislatively. and we're not the only ones. there are senators that are looking at this, like rand paul and cory booker, there are other nonprofits that are looking at this, and i just wanted to add my voice to that," legend said.
the singer/songwriter feels an early victory for his campaign was the approval of proposition 47 in california in november. the progressive initiative calls for treating shoplifting, forgery, fraud, petty theft and possession of small amounts of drugs - including cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine - as misdemeanors, instead of felonies.
"once you have that tag of a felony on your name, it's hard for you to do anything. getting those reduced to mmisdemeanors really impacted a lot of lives and we hope to launch more initiatives like that around the country," legend said.
legend said, "we have a serious problem with incarceration in this country. it's destroying families, it's destroying communities and we're the most incarcerated country in the world, and when you look deeper and look at the reasons we go to this place, we as a society made some choices politically and legislatively, culturally to deal with poverty, deal with mental illness in a certain way, and that way usually involves using incarceration."
legend, 36, will also visit a california state prison and co-host a criminal justice event with politico in washington, d.c. later this month. the campaign will include participation from other artists - to be announced - and various organizations committed to ending mass incarceration.
legend's speech at the oscars this year resonated with people who share his views. he won best original song for "glory" from the film selma, with actor/rapper common. "i'm just trying to create some more awareness on this issue and trying to make some real change legislatively. and we're not the only ones. there are senators that are looking at this, like rand paul and cory booker, there are other nonprofits that are looking at this, and i just wanted to add my voice to that," legend said.
the singer/songwriter feels an early victory for his campaign was the approval of proposition 47 in california in november. the progressive initiative calls for treating shoplifting, forgery, fraud, petty theft and possession of small amounts of drugs - including cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine - as misdemeanors, instead of felonies.
"once you have that tag of a felony on your name, it's hard for you to do anything. getting those reduced to mmisdemeanors really impacted a lot of lives and we hope to launch more initiatives like that around the country," legend said.
Thursday, April 16, 2015
Aaron Hernandez: Professional Timeline and Personal Tragedy
june 8, 2010 - aaron hernandez, a superb tight end from the university of florida, is drafted and signed to a four-year contract with the new england patriots.
july 16, 2012 - two men, daniel de abreu and safiro furtado, are shot to death in their car as they wait at a red light in boston's south end neighborhood.
august 27, 2012 - hernandez signs a five-year, $40 million contract with the patriots.
february, 2013 - alexander bradley, an associate of hernandez, is shot in the face in florida. bradley files a lawsuit alleging hernandez shot him after they argued at a strip club.
june 17, 2013 - the body of odin lloyd, a semi-professional football player, is found about a mile from hernandez's mansion in north attleborough, massachusetts. lloyd was dating the sister of hernandez's fiancee.
june 26, 2013 - hernandez is arrested on a murder charge in lloyd's death, and taken from his home in handcuffs. the patriots release him hours after his arrest. he later pleads not guilty.
may 15, 2014 - hernandez is indicted on two counts of first-degree murder - and other charges - in connection with the shootings of de abreu and furtado. his lawyers say he is innocent.
may 28, 2014 - hernandez pleads not guilty to seven charges in connection with the deaths of de abreu and furtado. a prosecutor says hernandez was angry because de abreu accidentally bumped into him at a nightclub while dancing, spilling his drink.
january 9, 2015 - hernandez goes on trial for murder in lloyd's killing.
april 7, 2015 - prosecutors and hernandez's lawyers present their closing statements and the high profile case goes to the jury.
april 15, 2015 - hernandez is convicted of first-degree murder, which carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment without parole.
july 16, 2012 - two men, daniel de abreu and safiro furtado, are shot to death in their car as they wait at a red light in boston's south end neighborhood.
august 27, 2012 - hernandez signs a five-year, $40 million contract with the patriots.
february, 2013 - alexander bradley, an associate of hernandez, is shot in the face in florida. bradley files a lawsuit alleging hernandez shot him after they argued at a strip club.
june 17, 2013 - the body of odin lloyd, a semi-professional football player, is found about a mile from hernandez's mansion in north attleborough, massachusetts. lloyd was dating the sister of hernandez's fiancee.
june 26, 2013 - hernandez is arrested on a murder charge in lloyd's death, and taken from his home in handcuffs. the patriots release him hours after his arrest. he later pleads not guilty.
may 15, 2014 - hernandez is indicted on two counts of first-degree murder - and other charges - in connection with the shootings of de abreu and furtado. his lawyers say he is innocent.
may 28, 2014 - hernandez pleads not guilty to seven charges in connection with the deaths of de abreu and furtado. a prosecutor says hernandez was angry because de abreu accidentally bumped into him at a nightclub while dancing, spilling his drink.
january 9, 2015 - hernandez goes on trial for murder in lloyd's killing.
april 7, 2015 - prosecutors and hernandez's lawyers present their closing statements and the high profile case goes to the jury.
april 15, 2015 - hernandez is convicted of first-degree murder, which carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment without parole.
2015 NBA Official League Player Leaders
Points Per Game
Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder 28.1
James Harden, Houston Rockets 27.4
LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers 25.3
Anthony Davis, New Orleans Pelicans 24.4
DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento Kings 24.1
Rebounds Per Game
Deandre Jordan, Los Angeles Clippers 15.0
Andre Drummond, Detroit Pistons 13.5
DeMarcus Cousins, SAC 12.7
Pau Gasol, Chicago Bulls 11.8
Tyson Chandler, Dallas Mavericks 11.5
Assists Per Game
Chris Paul, LAC 10.2
John Wall, Washington Wizards 10.0
Ty Lawson, Denver Nuggets 9.6
Russell Westbrook, OKC 8.6
Rajan Rondo, DAL 7.9
Steals Per Game
Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio Spurs 2.3
Russell Westbrook, OKC 2.1
Tony Allen, Memphis Grizzlies 2.1
Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors 2.0
Chris Paul, LAC 1.9
Field Goal %
Deandre Jordan, LAC 71.0%
Jonas Valanciunas, Toronto Raptors 57.2%
Marcin Gortat, WAS 56.6%
Timofey Mozgov, CLE 55.5%
Tyler Zeller, Boston Celtics 54.9%
Free Throw %
Stephen Curry, GSW 91.4%
Jodie Meeks, DET 90.6%
JJ Redick, LAC 90.1%
Jamal Crawford, LAC 90.1%
Chris Paul, LAC 90.0%
Three Point %
Kyle Korver, Atlanta Hawks 49.2%
Eric Gordon, NOP 44.8%
Stephen Curry, GSW 44.2%
JJ Redick, LAC 43.7%
Klay Thompson, GSW 43.5%
Blocks Per Game
Anthony Davis, NOP 2.9
Serge Ibaka, OKC 2.4
Rudy Gobert, UTA 2.3
Deandre Jordan, LAC 2.2
John Henson, Milwaukee Bucks 2.0
Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder 28.1
James Harden, Houston Rockets 27.4
LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers 25.3
Anthony Davis, New Orleans Pelicans 24.4
DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento Kings 24.1
Rebounds Per Game
Deandre Jordan, Los Angeles Clippers 15.0
Andre Drummond, Detroit Pistons 13.5
DeMarcus Cousins, SAC 12.7
Pau Gasol, Chicago Bulls 11.8
Tyson Chandler, Dallas Mavericks 11.5
Assists Per Game
Chris Paul, LAC 10.2
John Wall, Washington Wizards 10.0
Ty Lawson, Denver Nuggets 9.6
Russell Westbrook, OKC 8.6
Rajan Rondo, DAL 7.9
Steals Per Game
Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio Spurs 2.3
Russell Westbrook, OKC 2.1
Tony Allen, Memphis Grizzlies 2.1
Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors 2.0
Chris Paul, LAC 1.9
Field Goal %
Deandre Jordan, LAC 71.0%
Jonas Valanciunas, Toronto Raptors 57.2%
Marcin Gortat, WAS 56.6%
Timofey Mozgov, CLE 55.5%
Tyler Zeller, Boston Celtics 54.9%
Free Throw %
Stephen Curry, GSW 91.4%
Jodie Meeks, DET 90.6%
JJ Redick, LAC 90.1%
Jamal Crawford, LAC 90.1%
Chris Paul, LAC 90.0%
Three Point %
Kyle Korver, Atlanta Hawks 49.2%
Eric Gordon, NOP 44.8%
Stephen Curry, GSW 44.2%
JJ Redick, LAC 43.7%
Klay Thompson, GSW 43.5%
Blocks Per Game
Anthony Davis, NOP 2.9
Serge Ibaka, OKC 2.4
Rudy Gobert, UTA 2.3
Deandre Jordan, LAC 2.2
John Henson, Milwaukee Bucks 2.0
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Stop and Frisk Practice in Chicago has Higher Rates than New York City
the american civil liberties union (aclu) of illinois completed a study in march of this year. the aclu found the chicago police department (cpd) is unlawfully stopping a "shocking number of people," and they single out (racially profile) black and brown people.
the aclu's compelling report showed "chicagoans were stopped more than four times as often as new yorkers at the height of new york city's stop and frisk practice." last summer, the cpd made over 250,000 stops - none led to arrests. black people constitute about 33% of the city's population, yet they accounted for nearly 75% of all stops.
the cpd has increased pedestrian stops under the eye of police superintendent garry mccarthy. he spent much of his career in the new york police department and was the former police chief in newark, new jersey. both cities received court challenges. the cpd does not collect systematic data on all frisks or stops resulting in an arrest or ordinance violation.
the aclu made some recommendations, in order to cultivate trust in the black and brown community. they suggest the cpd: 1) collect data on all stops and frisks, and make them public; 2) provide regular training on legal requirements for stops and frisks; 3) require officers to issue a detailed receipt for every pedestrian stop.
the aclu's compelling report showed "chicagoans were stopped more than four times as often as new yorkers at the height of new york city's stop and frisk practice." last summer, the cpd made over 250,000 stops - none led to arrests. black people constitute about 33% of the city's population, yet they accounted for nearly 75% of all stops.
the cpd has increased pedestrian stops under the eye of police superintendent garry mccarthy. he spent much of his career in the new york police department and was the former police chief in newark, new jersey. both cities received court challenges. the cpd does not collect systematic data on all frisks or stops resulting in an arrest or ordinance violation.
the aclu made some recommendations, in order to cultivate trust in the black and brown community. they suggest the cpd: 1) collect data on all stops and frisks, and make them public; 2) provide regular training on legal requirements for stops and frisks; 3) require officers to issue a detailed receipt for every pedestrian stop.
Friday, April 10, 2015
Two Congressmen Introduce Bill To Restore Voting Rights After Prison
u.s. senator ben cardin (d-md) and u.s. representative john conyers (d-mi) recently introduced the democracy restoration act. the bill intends to give every citizen the right to vote in federal elections, unless they are incarcerated for a felony at the time the election takes place.
according to information in the socially progressive bill, the variation in state disenfranchisement laws "leads to an unfair disparity and unequal participation in federal elections based solely on where a person lives."
the bill also states about one in every 40 adults in the u.s. presently cannot vote as a result of their felony convictions. of the 5.8 million people are barred from voting due to a felony conviction. only 25% are in prison.
marc mauer, executive director of the sentencing project says," you've done your time in prison, now you're living in the community. you're expected to abide by the rules of society, pay your taxes, get a job...it's counter-productive to the community-at-large for us to be essentially treating people like second-class citizens."
the bill also notes state disenfranchisement policies disproportionately impact people of african descent. currently, one in 13 blacks in the u.s. are barred from voting - a rate four times greater than non-black people.
senator barbara mikulski (d-md) said, "from suffragettes through civil rights, expanding access to the ballot box in america has always been a move in the right direction. disenfranchising former offenders does a disservice to the very idea of democracy. if an american citizen has paid their debt to society after committing a crime, our focus must be on the rehabilitation and full reintegration into society - voting rights and all."
conversely, last month, u.s. senator rand paul (r-ky) and u.s. senate minority leader harry reid (d-nv) introduced the bipartisan civil rights voting restoration act. this bill would restore voting rights only for people convicted of non-federal crimes.
according to information in the socially progressive bill, the variation in state disenfranchisement laws "leads to an unfair disparity and unequal participation in federal elections based solely on where a person lives."
the bill also states about one in every 40 adults in the u.s. presently cannot vote as a result of their felony convictions. of the 5.8 million people are barred from voting due to a felony conviction. only 25% are in prison.
marc mauer, executive director of the sentencing project says," you've done your time in prison, now you're living in the community. you're expected to abide by the rules of society, pay your taxes, get a job...it's counter-productive to the community-at-large for us to be essentially treating people like second-class citizens."
the bill also notes state disenfranchisement policies disproportionately impact people of african descent. currently, one in 13 blacks in the u.s. are barred from voting - a rate four times greater than non-black people.
senator barbara mikulski (d-md) said, "from suffragettes through civil rights, expanding access to the ballot box in america has always been a move in the right direction. disenfranchising former offenders does a disservice to the very idea of democracy. if an american citizen has paid their debt to society after committing a crime, our focus must be on the rehabilitation and full reintegration into society - voting rights and all."
conversely, last month, u.s. senator rand paul (r-ky) and u.s. senate minority leader harry reid (d-nv) introduced the bipartisan civil rights voting restoration act. this bill would restore voting rights only for people convicted of non-federal crimes.
Wednesday, April 08, 2015
2015 NBA Hall-of-Fame Class
the 2015 naismith memorial basketball hall-of-fame inductees are:
dick bavetta. john calipari. louie dampier. lindsay gaze.
spencer haywood. tom heinsohn. john isaac. lisa leslie.
dikembe mutombo. george raveling. jo jo white.
the induction ceremony is september 11 in springfield, massachusetts.
dick bavetta. john calipari. louie dampier. lindsay gaze.
spencer haywood. tom heinsohn. john isaac. lisa leslie.
dikembe mutombo. george raveling. jo jo white.
the induction ceremony is september 11 in springfield, massachusetts.
UConn Women Wins 2015 NCAA Championship
uconn (38-1) beat notre dame 63-53 on tuesday to win the 2015 ncaa championship. the hard-fought victory was their third consecutive title, and tenth overall for the teams' storied franchise. they've never lost a title game, and dominated notre dame (36-3) by 20 points in last year's finals.
huskies coach geno auriemma tied ucla legend john wooden with 10 ncaa titles. "obviously it's a very significant number because that's the number that's been out there and people want to talk about it. i'll be the first to say i'm not john wooden and i got a bunch of friends who'd tell you i'm right, i'm not. as i said the other day i just think what we've done here in the last 20 years is pretty remarkable in it's own right," auriemma said.
uconn forward breanna stewart was named most outstanding player for the third straight year. the two-time ap player of the year became the first women to achieve that distinction. she finished with 15 rebounds, eight points and four blocks. "we had to work hard for this one. this is one of the hardest things we've had to do since i've been here," stewart said. her goal is to win four championships.
kaleena mosqueda-lewis and moriah jefferson led the huskies with 15 points each. both players earned all-american honors this year. the senior mosqueda-lewis set an all-time ncaa record with 392 three-point field goals in uconn's final four victory against maryland on saturday.
notre dame all-american jewell lloyd shot poorly and scored just 12 points. coach muffet mcgraw led the irish to the championship game two straight years, and four of the last five seasons: but they lost each one. notre dame won it's lone title in 2001. mcgraw said, "it was a great accomplishment to get here. it was disappointing we weren't able to play our game."
the connecticut-notre dame matchup was just the second time in the history of the tournament the same teams played in two consecutive finals. uconn beat tennessee in 2003 and 2004. it was also the 55th meeting between the top two teams in the ap poll - the #1 team holds a 34-21 edge. notre dame beat uconn by 18 points earlier this season, but not last night, when it mattered most.
huskies coach geno auriemma tied ucla legend john wooden with 10 ncaa titles. "obviously it's a very significant number because that's the number that's been out there and people want to talk about it. i'll be the first to say i'm not john wooden and i got a bunch of friends who'd tell you i'm right, i'm not. as i said the other day i just think what we've done here in the last 20 years is pretty remarkable in it's own right," auriemma said.
uconn forward breanna stewart was named most outstanding player for the third straight year. the two-time ap player of the year became the first women to achieve that distinction. she finished with 15 rebounds, eight points and four blocks. "we had to work hard for this one. this is one of the hardest things we've had to do since i've been here," stewart said. her goal is to win four championships.
kaleena mosqueda-lewis and moriah jefferson led the huskies with 15 points each. both players earned all-american honors this year. the senior mosqueda-lewis set an all-time ncaa record with 392 three-point field goals in uconn's final four victory against maryland on saturday.
notre dame all-american jewell lloyd shot poorly and scored just 12 points. coach muffet mcgraw led the irish to the championship game two straight years, and four of the last five seasons: but they lost each one. notre dame won it's lone title in 2001. mcgraw said, "it was a great accomplishment to get here. it was disappointing we weren't able to play our game."
the connecticut-notre dame matchup was just the second time in the history of the tournament the same teams played in two consecutive finals. uconn beat tennessee in 2003 and 2004. it was also the 55th meeting between the top two teams in the ap poll - the #1 team holds a 34-21 edge. notre dame beat uconn by 18 points earlier this season, but not last night, when it mattered most.
Tuesday, April 07, 2015
Duke Wins 2015 NCAA Championship
duke beat wisconsin 68-63 on monday to win the 2015 ncaa championship. in a highly-competitive, thrilling game played in indianapolis between two number one seeds, the blue devils fought back from a nine-point deficit in the second half to earn longtime coach mike krzyzewski his fifth title.
freshman guard tyus jones was named most outstanding player. jones scored 19 of his game-high 23 points in the second half. duke set a tournament record for most points by freshmen in the final game with 60. grayson allen ignited the bench with 16 points, justise winslow had 11 points and jahlil okafor scored 10 points, despite early foul trouble.
coach krzyzewski's five titles puts him alone in second place to legendary, hall-of-fame, ucla coach john wooden, who has 10 ncaa championship wins. in 1991, 'coach k' spurred duke to back-to-back victories. krzyzewski said, "they showed such grit tonight. our bench was spectacular, and like we said two months ago, eight is enough. eight is enough."
okafor is expected to be the number one pick in the nba draft if he goes pro. his skills and talents are refreshing for a post-up college guy in a point guard pro league. but the center from chicago was outplayed by naismith college player of the year frank kaminsky. okafor said, "it was fun to watch my teammates do what they do. they have my back the entire season, it was no different tonight."
wisconsin (36-4) upset kentucky (38-1) in the final four, a team which beat them by one point in the 2014 title game. kaminsky had 21 points and 12 rebounds, but duke's aggressive defense led to the badgers poor shooting: they shot just 41% - seven points off their season average. furthermore, the team had just two fouls in the first half, but 13 in the second half.
freshman guard tyus jones was named most outstanding player. jones scored 19 of his game-high 23 points in the second half. duke set a tournament record for most points by freshmen in the final game with 60. grayson allen ignited the bench with 16 points, justise winslow had 11 points and jahlil okafor scored 10 points, despite early foul trouble.
coach krzyzewski's five titles puts him alone in second place to legendary, hall-of-fame, ucla coach john wooden, who has 10 ncaa championship wins. in 1991, 'coach k' spurred duke to back-to-back victories. krzyzewski said, "they showed such grit tonight. our bench was spectacular, and like we said two months ago, eight is enough. eight is enough."
okafor is expected to be the number one pick in the nba draft if he goes pro. his skills and talents are refreshing for a post-up college guy in a point guard pro league. but the center from chicago was outplayed by naismith college player of the year frank kaminsky. okafor said, "it was fun to watch my teammates do what they do. they have my back the entire season, it was no different tonight."
wisconsin (36-4) upset kentucky (38-1) in the final four, a team which beat them by one point in the 2014 title game. kaminsky had 21 points and 12 rebounds, but duke's aggressive defense led to the badgers poor shooting: they shot just 41% - seven points off their season average. furthermore, the team had just two fouls in the first half, but 13 in the second half.
Thursday, April 02, 2015
President Obama Commutes 22 Drug Sentences
president barack obama commuted the sentences of 22 men and women on tuesday. eight of the 22 inmates graced with reprieves would have died behind bars with their life sentences intact. prior to this announcement, obama had only commuted the sentences of 21 people, and pardoned 64, out of thousands of applications received.
the individuals granted clemency reflects the president's broad approach - not exclusively leaning toward resourceful, white-collar criminals. each person was sentenced to jail for intent to distribute an illegal drug, with 14 of those cases involving possession or distribution of cocaine.
white house counsel neil eggleston said, "had they been sentenced under current laws and policies, many of these individuals would have already served their time and paid their debt to society. because many were convicted under an outdated sentencing regime, they served years - in some cases more than a decade - longer than individuals convicted today of the same crime."
obama sent a letter to each of the commutation recipients, and he encouraged all of them to utilize their unexpected freedom as a vehicle to improve the quality of their lives. an administration official says this was the first time obama has sent such letters during his presidency.
obama's letter reads,"i am granting your application because you have demonstrated the potential to turn your life around. now it is up to you to make the most of this opportunity. it will not be easy, and you will confront many who doubt people with criminal records can change. perhaps even you are unsure of how you will adjust to your new circumstances."
"but remember that you have the capacity to make good choices. by doing so, you will affect not only your life, but those close to you. you will also influence, through your example, the possibility that others in your circumstances get their own second chance in the future," obama wrote.
the justice department expanded its criteria for clemency applicants last year, prioritizing defendants who would have likely been given a shorter prison term had they been sentenced today and who have served at least 10 years behind bars, have had good conduct in prison, have no significant ties to criminal enterprises and have no history of violence or significant criminal history.
advocates for greater clemency argued obama should have followed through on the core principles of the 2010 fair sentencing act. the president signed this document, which exponentially reduced the disparity in federal treatment of crimes involving crack cocaine and cocaine powder.
four of the 22 commuted inmates were represented by the clemency project 2014, a group of lawyers offering pro-bono legal assistance to prisoners applying to have their sentences reduced. cynthia roseberry, the group's manager, held their anonymity. roseberry said, "the organization continues to submit petitions at an increasing pace and looks forward to more regular grants by the president."
the individuals granted clemency reflects the president's broad approach - not exclusively leaning toward resourceful, white-collar criminals. each person was sentenced to jail for intent to distribute an illegal drug, with 14 of those cases involving possession or distribution of cocaine.
white house counsel neil eggleston said, "had they been sentenced under current laws and policies, many of these individuals would have already served their time and paid their debt to society. because many were convicted under an outdated sentencing regime, they served years - in some cases more than a decade - longer than individuals convicted today of the same crime."
obama sent a letter to each of the commutation recipients, and he encouraged all of them to utilize their unexpected freedom as a vehicle to improve the quality of their lives. an administration official says this was the first time obama has sent such letters during his presidency.
obama's letter reads,"i am granting your application because you have demonstrated the potential to turn your life around. now it is up to you to make the most of this opportunity. it will not be easy, and you will confront many who doubt people with criminal records can change. perhaps even you are unsure of how you will adjust to your new circumstances."
"but remember that you have the capacity to make good choices. by doing so, you will affect not only your life, but those close to you. you will also influence, through your example, the possibility that others in your circumstances get their own second chance in the future," obama wrote.
the justice department expanded its criteria for clemency applicants last year, prioritizing defendants who would have likely been given a shorter prison term had they been sentenced today and who have served at least 10 years behind bars, have had good conduct in prison, have no significant ties to criminal enterprises and have no history of violence or significant criminal history.
advocates for greater clemency argued obama should have followed through on the core principles of the 2010 fair sentencing act. the president signed this document, which exponentially reduced the disparity in federal treatment of crimes involving crack cocaine and cocaine powder.
four of the 22 commuted inmates were represented by the clemency project 2014, a group of lawyers offering pro-bono legal assistance to prisoners applying to have their sentences reduced. cynthia roseberry, the group's manager, held their anonymity. roseberry said, "the organization continues to submit petitions at an increasing pace and looks forward to more regular grants by the president."
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