Dem-NPL State Senator Tim Mathern of Fargo’s interview with Austin Erickson
Republican State Senator Kyle Davison of Fargo’s interview with Austin Erickson
BISMARCK, N.D. – Republican and Democratic-NPL State Senators from Fargo share why they voted against North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley’s “Truth In Sentencing” bill despite Cass County Sheriff Jesse Jahner being in favor of it.
It would have people convicted of violent crime serve 85 percent of their sentences before they’re considered for early release. It would also make sure people convicted of assaulting law enforcement, resisting arrest and fleeing law enforcement can’t serve their sentences on those crimes concurrently with other convictions.
The bill was passed by the North Dakota Senate in a 28 to 18 vote. It now goes to the House of Representatives.
Dem-NPL State Senator Tim Mathern of Fargo says if the bill becomes law, convicts considered violent would be kept in maximum security where some services won’t be available to them.
“There is no such thing as a truth in sentencing bill. That is words that have been attached to it. I voted against it because it will increase the number of people who commit crimes because they will not get the proper treatment, education, job skills training while in prison. A number of the provisions of the bill would keep people out of places like Center Incorporated in Fargo. Everybody wants to keep our citizens safe. We don’t want our law enforcement officers hurt. The consequence of this bill are really not what the Attorney General is calling for,” Mathern said.
Mathern says he consulted with law enforcement and judges before voting no.
Republican State Senator Kyle Davison of Fargo agrees with the part of the bill making sure people convicted of assaulting law enforcement, resisting arrest and fleeing law enforcement can’t serve their sentences on those crimes at the same time as other convictions. However, he voted against the legislation.
“At the end of the day 95 percent of people who come to prison will eventually be our neighbors and there’s no overwhelming evidence that the bill will have the impact the Attorney General has. I am not sure what the bill says is going to have a significant impact on recidivism. I think it will create as many problems it’s trying to solve,” Davison said.
Davison adds he’s not disappointed the bill is moving to the House. He’s supportive State Representatives will tighten up the definition of violent criminals.
