23.1 F
Saint Paul
Friday, March 29, 2024

Restorative Justice

FlagWave

We are all sinners, and our response to sin and failure should not be abandonment and despair, but rather justice, contrition, reparation, and return or re-integration of all into the community. 7

In addressing the criminal justice system, the Church has called for an approach that promotes redemption, restoration, and rehabilitation rather than simply a mechanism of punishment.8 Offenders should be held accountable for their crimes, but also given the opportunity to grow, take responsibility, and demonstrate remorse for what they have done. Greater support needs to be given to programs that prevent crime, engage at-risk youth, and treat substance abuse.

Additionally, programs that prepare an individual for probation or parole, and that assist the person with reintegration into society, are also in need of support. These programs address the significant barriers that often keep parolees from becoming healthy and productive members of society.

At the same time, Catholics must be sensitive and responsive to the needs of victims and their families, who have been impacted by crime and violence. Victims and their families should be supported and encouraged to participate throughout the criminal justice process as part of the healing process.

  • Where does the candidate stand on sentencing guidelines and parole practices that take into consideration an individual’s potential threat to society, rather than simply relying on mandatory minimum sentencing?
  • Where does the candidate stand on prisoner rehabilitation and re-entry programs that include continuing education, adequate personal identification, transportation, housing, and employment assistance, as well as restoring the right to vote for ex-offenders who are now living and participating in our communities?

 

- Advertisement -

Back to the Voter’s Guide

Save

Save

 


Previous article
Next article

Related Articles

SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -

Trending

- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -
12,743FansLike
1,478FollowersFollow
6,479FollowersFollow
35,922FollowersFollow
583SubscribersSubscribe
- Advertisement -