Ferguson, Mo., has made the first steps towards major change since the shooting of the 18 year old Michael Brown. The City Council is attempting to deal with the problems of municipal court fines that leave many minor offenders in crippling debt. After Brown’s murder, Ferguson was put under the national spot light, causing them to reevaluate their policies in a predominantly black community where many had complaints of police harassment.
In response to the criticisms, one of the things the city is
going to vote on limiting the amount of funds that can come from fines. They
are limiting a number of the fines imposed on people who do not have the
ability to pay. These include fines for not showing up to court, traffic fines
and others. Many of these fines will be replaced with alternative options, such
as community service, allowing those in poverty to not be stuck in debt.
Ferguson is attempting to improve the relationship between
the police and the community. These changes are the first steps in that
process.
It's great that Ferguson is working on the relationship between the police and the community after such a publicized event. I agree with the city's decision to vote on limiting the number of fines for those who are unable to pay them, as there is no reason to make them struggle more financially than they already are. However, I don't think they should be let off completely from any penalties. I think the city's idea of replacing some of the fines with community service is a viable alternative.
ReplyDeleteI like the idea how Ferguson's city council is developing a somewhat positive relationship trend with the community after this tragedy. I understand the council's first steps of helping out those who can't afford the cost of fines but the real question is whether these offenders are convicted of some sort of alternative penalty? If the police simply lets these deserving offenders run free without some sort of degree of penalty, high or low, what is stopping them from continuing? I like the council's decision and perhaps the article doesn't provide enough information on these first steps but I believe they are steps in the right direction.
ReplyDeleteIt's always great to hear that we are making strides to resolve a stressful situation. This policy is a short term fix, but not something that should solidify and last forever. Cutting back on citizens who break the law will just enable them to do so more in the future. I know these are minute crimes, but still crimes, and who knows if it will expand to more devastating crimes. If someone knows they are unable to pay a fine then just follow the law.
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