As an individual who has been directly affected by the negative impacts of early release programs for violent offenders, I would like to bring attention to a situation. My mother was assaulted by a repeat violent offender who was prematurely released from custody. This traumatic incident has not only impacted my family but is also a symptom of a broader societal issue. 

There is a pressing need to critically examine and change the current system of early release for violent criminals. According to data released by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, almost 44% of released prisoners were arrested during the first year following release. Within three years of release, 68% had been arrested again, and this rate rose to a staggering 79.6% within six years. This speaks to the inadequacy of the current early release procedures and reinforces the urgency of addressing this issue.

What is required is a policy change that ensures more stringent regulations governing early release programs, prioritizing public safety over ostensible rehabilitation efforts that are proving to be insufficient. The time for reform is now. With this petition, let us urge policymakers to conduct a thorough review of early release processes and enforce stricter regulations— placing the safety of the public first.

Sign this petition today. (Bureau of Justice Statistics Report, 2018)