Using New Community Impact Statement Process

I just had my first experience with the new on-line community impact statement process. I used it to file an impact statement regarding the car-jacking that occured across the street from my house in late July. The new on-line access is much more convenient.

I know from conversations with a couple of judges, attorneys and a probation officer that community impact statements are taken seriously and judges do consider community impact when sentencing. I have to think that the new process will result in affecte people filling out statements that otherwise would not hassle with the process. I commend County Attorney Freeman's Office for putting this together.

One small negative comment, it did not appear that the search function worked.

As was pointed out in the NECP newsletter, the suspect in the car-jacking, Ricardo "Ricky" Gonzalez has felony charges for other crimes pending as well. Repeat offenders like this are the type where impact statements can have a big effect. Without the statements it is easier to overlook the other charges or the judge may be more likely to count time served against multiple offenses. Highlighting the negative effects, the seriousness of the crimes and the continual nature of offenses may keep Mr. Gonzalez for a longer period in a place where he can't do harm.

If there is any follow up from the Hennepin County Attorney's Office, I will keep you posted.