Criminal Justice Reform From 2013 May Be Tweeked In 2015 Session

Jail DoorA justice reform bill passed by the 2013 South Dakota legislature is still being implemented, and may be expanded in the 2015 session.  The 2013 law was an attempt to lower the numbers of people going to the state penitentiary, and instead allow the use of more alternative penalties.  District 17 Senator-elect Arthur Rusch says he is hearing about increased costs that have fallen to the counties…

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One addition under discussion would extend the reforms to juvenile justice. Rusch, a retired circuit court judge, says the Governor’s office is working on a bill…

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Rusch says he thinks more alternatives for juveniles would be a benefit…

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The 2015 session starts January 14th.