With Murder Rates on the Rise Across Massachusetts, Boston needs an Experienced DA like Maloney

BOSTON, Nov. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- With gun violence and murder, rape and manslaughter rates increasing across Massachusetts and Suffolk County, the role of the district attorney becomes one of even greater importance. If filled by a genuine progressive, the newly elected DA has an opportunity to positively impact the criminal justice landscape of Suffolk County for decades to come. This is why it's imperative for voters to distinguish the difference between the lip service of Rachel Rollins and myself, a candidate dedicated to responsible criminal justice reform with a record of progressive legal experience.

In a recent article done by Jamie Folk for Medium.com, Rachael Rollins was shown to consistently over-state her role as State Assistant District Attorney. While Rollins has conceded her work at the Plymouth County DA's office was actually through a private law firm loaning her services to that office for a few months, her work mostly consisted of shadowing assistant prosecutors and negotiating plea bargains, not trying cases before a jury or a judge. Rollins also states she's never actually tried a case by herself in court, further highlighting her inexperience as a trial attorney and ability to successfully fill the role of Suffolk County DA.  There is also speculation about her abrupt departure as legal counsel for Mass Port after a scandal involving overtime came to light.

As an experienced trial attorney certified to argue cases before the Supreme Court, I've seen how the District Attorney's office can impact people's lives and make a difference in our community. Within the criminal justice system, the district attorney plays a substantial role in determining the way criminal cases are initiated and resolved. From decisions on charging to sentencing recommendations, the district attorney's office wields a substantial amount of power in the judicial process. When the law is broken, their main responsibility is to pursue justice on behalf of the Commonwealth.

While I welcome the implementation of diversion programs and alternatives to incarceration, decisions on how to prosecute should be made on a case-by case basis, placing the safety and security of our community as the primary concern. As Suffolk County DA, I intend to fully prosecute all gun charges and violent crimes. With the recent rise in gun violence and murder rates across the state and Suffolk County, it's vital the DA's office holds a tough line on gun violence and violent crimes. 

Rollins has repeatedly been called out for being too "soft" on crime. Her controversial refuse to prosecute list of fifteen includes resisting arrest, drug possession and drug possession with intent to distribute. The latter has garnered heavy criticism in light of the massive opioid epidemic and overdose deaths of 259 Suffolk County residents in 2017 alone, while allowing for hostility and confrontation towards police by not prosecuting resisting arrest places our law enforcement officers at even greater risk. This is particularly alarming after we've seen three officers shot this year, two tragically losing their lives.

In an effort to combat rising gun violence and murder rates, I would immediately initiate communication with all local police departments and new Police Commissioner Gross. As Suffolk County District Attorney, I would work alongside our police departments and community leaders to combat the recent increase in violence. Commissioner Gross has publicly stated he understands the need for families of victims and communities to feel a sense of justice in light of recent events. He also shows leadership in the battle against opioids, an epidemic that is devastating families across our community and contributing to an increase in murder rates across Suffolk County and Massachusetts.

As a proponent of reforming the criminal justice system and using alternative programs over incarceration for mental illness and drug addiction, I believe these programs have a rightful place in prosecuting crime in Suffolk County. However, making a blanket list of non-punishable crimes as Rachel Rollins has done, shows an irresponsible and dangerous agenda for district attorney at a time where violent crimes and gun violence are on the rise.

As Suffolk County District Attorney it will be my main priority to pursue justice for the Commonwealth while maintaining a united front with local law enforcement to combat the recent rise in violence across Suffolk County.

Contact: Linda Arian 
Email: [email protected]   
Phone: 617-419-6719

SOURCE Michael Maloney for Suffolk County District Attorney

Related Links

http://www.michaelmaloneyforda.com