http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=1613583
An investigation by reporters for The Miami Herald alleges white criminal offenders in Florida are more likely to have their convictions quashed than blacks who are charged with the exact same crime. The report sheds light on apparent abuse of a law meant to give a fresh start to first-time criminals. NPR's Tony Cox speaks with a reporter for The Miami Herald, as well as a former head of the Black Lawyers Association.
We hear many stories on the news dealing with race in the criminal justice system. Some against whites, some against blacks, either one starts an uproar when they see a sudden jolt in the system as to who is in jail the most and who starts more crimes. Well Florida set out not to be racist when they provided this opportunity but as a way to give people a second chance. Well from the statistics, white criminal offenders are more likely to have their charges put aside. Florida has provided a break to criminal offenders so they can say they have never committed a crime thus letting them get a job possibly in the future and even keep their right to vote. The statistics are all there but many people are questioning if a racist bias is present. Yes, about 50 percent of white criminals are more likely to get off their charges than black criminals with the same charges, but its just how people are convicted and how many times they are convicted. Usually drug possession, child molesters and abusers, and also rapists are getting breaks and let off on their charge for their first time offense. There is a NPR radio broadcast to explain the whole situation. I personally believe its a bit racist, but then again if the facts are there we can't really point the finger. Certain crimes land you a break on the first time,wrong place at the wrong time shouldn't ruin your life forever, so I guess I agree with having some of first time offenders having their charges taken away. We are all human, one day I could make a mistake that would change my life and if I could get a second chance I would welcome it. I know everyone would if they were in the shoes of first time offenders.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=1613583