Don't just sit there

A long and arduous court process seems to be a chronic problem here in Mecklenburg County. In an article in the Fall 2009 issue of the Myers Park Homeowners Association newsletter, a writer (unidentified) says that "the same 400 repeat offenders commit 80% of the crimes in Charlotte-Mecklenburg."

A recent article in the Charlotte Observer cites Mayor Pat McCrory as saying that the trial process takes so long that inmates out on bond are often rearrested on new charges. Click here to read that article. Last week, 200 inmates were sleeping on the floor of the Mecklenburg County jail due to overcrowding. Something does need to change.

Charmeck Court Watch works with the police community liaison officer to "track the worst of the repeat offenders in our police division. " Members go to court as a group, write community impact letters to the Judges and District Attorneys, and follow and report arrest reports on its web site. On the web site, you can also read reports on the trial proceedings attended by the group. I have to confess to not knowing enough to understand some of the reporting (is it good or bad if a judge enters 20 minutes after a court room opens?), but I am glad that someone is doing more than just complaining.

To Do: "You must be the change you wish to see in the world." Mahatma Gandhi