Senate OKs victim rights bill 96-1

April 23, 2004

BY SERGIO BUSTOS Advertisement


WASHINGTON -- The Senate gave overwhelming approval Thursday to a bill that would give federal crime victims new rights and could redefine the way federal courts deal with all criminal cases.

The bill would give crime victims and their families the right to be protected from defendants and to be notified of all federal court proceedings. They also would have the right to speak at any federal court hearing involving a defendant's sentencing, plea agreement or potential release from custody. The proposal would not affect crime victims in state courts.

The Senate vote was 96 to 1. The House is expected to pass the measure and President Bush has indicated that he would sign it into law, said the measure's two key sponsors, Sen. Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) and Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.)

''This will help level the playing field for crime victims by finally giving them a voice in proceedings that so directly impact their lives,'' said Kyl.

more: http://www.suntimes.com/output/news/cst-nws-vic23.html

eom

This is bad policy, and bad law.

See www.talkleft.com for more info.

and I think it is worthwhile.

Especially after a conviction, a victim has the right to know when the offender is going to be released. Otherwise, he or she could not make an informed safety plan or ensure that his or her voice is heard in the courtroom.

It doesn't affect a defendant's rights to allow the victims to speak in court about the effects of the crime.

They add emotionalism into court proceedings.

I also really hate the new habit of giving every law a cute name. Whoever started this trend needs to be punched in the mouth. I mean, how would you like to be the politician who voted against "Victims' Rights?"

He cast the lone vote agaisnt this. But he is not running for reelection.

propaganda, propaganda, propaganda

But I don't think that knee jerk emotionalism should be added to sentencing hearings.