UP Gazette

State Rep. Dave Prestin strongly condemned the proposed 'Resentence & Release' plan put forth by Democrats, expressing grave concerns about the potential repercussions. Prestin criticized the plan during a committee hearing, emphasizing the detrimental impact it could have on victims and their families. He stated, “This sickening plan is nothing more than an attempt to resentence and release rapists, killers, and pedophiles. Criminals do not deserve to be coddled as though they’re the victims.”

Prestin raised alarm over the potential risks posed by the proposed legislation, highlighting the emotional toll it would take on victims who would be forced to relive their traumas repeatedly. He asserted, “It is absolutely evil to suggest victims should have to relive heinous crimes each year while violent criminals seek an early release.” Prestin also underscored the safety concerns for communities, stating, “Putting criminals back on the street will make our communities less safe and put regular people at unnecessary risk.”

The proposed House Bills 4556-4560 would enable a wide range of convicted criminals, including those serving life sentences without parole, to request a shorter sentence after just 10 years in prison. Prestin pointed out that the bills could potentially impact thousands of individuals, including murderers, individuals convicted of criminal sexual conduct, and armed robbers. The sheer magnitude of the plan raised serious questions about its implications for public safety and the stability of correctional facilities.

Prestin further criticized the lack of consideration for victims in the proposed plan, questioning the priorities of the Democratic party. He questioned, “Have Democrats seriously veered so far to the left that they’ve forgotten victims’ rights?” Prestin highlighted the absence of acknowledgment for the individuals harmed by the crimes committed by the offenders and the potential destabilization of correctional facilities that could result from the mass release of violent criminals.