Allan Young Is Right

In a recent column he said: Little will change until we start to look at alternatives to criminal courts for dealing with minor assaults, petty vandalism, disturbing the peace, possession of illicit drugs and a whole host of other misconduct that does not require the heavy, punitive hand of state punishment to achieve justice.

I couldn't agree more.....

Found with a gun there is no need for a lengthy trial. One appearance should be adequate and a mandatory sentence would also speed things up. Found with a "small" quantity of illicit drugs again one appearance and mandatory sentencing. Stopped by police and illicit drugs/weapons are found and the driver is the owner then we don't need any remands, etc. For other petty crimes speedy trial, sentenced to community service and we all benefit.