EKB News

For years, a U.K. law professor has argued the state has stiffened penalties for non-violent crimes to the point of overcrowding jails and prisons, even though lawmakers made it easier to qualify for parole. Representative Johnny Bell (D Glasgow) favors easing or outright elimination of KY's persistent felony 2 law which enhances sentences for repeat non-violent offenders. Bell, a defense attorney who also serves on a judiciary subcommittee is looking at possible changes in the penal code. He says the $19,000 a year cost to house one drug offender could provide rehabilitation for multiple offenders, thereby saving the state lots of money. Attorney General Jack Conway says his office is reviewing recommendations but has concerns about changes to PFO laws, while many prosecutors vigorously defend the PFO laws.