A new program is taking shape in Georgia, one that will reportedly help farmer’s while giving ex-inmates and probationers a chance to develop job skills and earn money. But the plan isn’t without its problems. While the Governor is hoping to tweak the plan to make it a win-win, others have doubts. [Read more…]
Georgia Jails “Warehousing” Mentally Ill
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has a special report this week called “Hidden Shame”, where they look at the presence of mentally ill people within the criminal justice system. Decades ago, people with mental health issues and little support could turn to state run hospitals for assistance with things like medication and even basic needs like a place to sleep and food. Now, those hospitals have all but disappeared and their patients have nowhere to go. [Read more…]
New Fake ID Law Focuses on Immigrants, Carries Harsh Penalties
A new law makes it a serious felony to use fake identification in order to obtain employment. Prior to the passing of this “aggravated identity theft” law, using a fake id for employment purposes would garner a fine and possibly probation. Now, however, violators could go to prison for 15 years and pay fines reaching $250,000. [Read more…]
Pill Mills Booming in GA
Surrounding states (particularly Florida) are usually the ones seen combating major pill mills and illegal prescription drug problems. Now the trade is experiencing an uptick in Georgia as well. It was inevitable, really, with tightened enforcement in Florida, that prescription drug traffickers, addicts, and unscrupulous medical professionals would set up shop here. [Read more…]
Admitted Killer’s Conviction Overturned on “Technicality”
Twenty-seven years ago, Curtis Tyner admitted to binding and throwing Martha Anne Mickel into Bear Creek in south Fulton County. But now, he may be released because of an oversight in his case nearly three decades ago. The state Supreme Court determined his conviction must be overturned though the Fulton County DA plans on appealing. [Read more…]
Gwinnett Police Unveil License Plate Scanners
Police in Gwinnett, GA are deploying their newest technology surveillance tool: the Automatic License Plate Reader. [Read more…]