An initiative that sought to reduce crime in Prince George’s County was vetoed by County Executive Angela Alsobrooks.
According to Councilman Edward P. Burroughs III, the amendment would reallocate $250,000 to a program aimed at preventing repeat offenders.
“I am very surprised and very disappointed because I know that this program would ultimately save lives. This program will make the county safer, not just for returning citizens, but for our entire community,” Burroughs said.
Also, according to the councilman, many of the crimes in the county are committed by repeat offenders. In 2020 alone, 54% of people between the ages of 18 and 26 who were convicted and imprisoned had already served time for another crime.
“There is no program outside of this for that group of people, to deal with recidivism, and we have to be smart about crime. We have to look at the data, and I know for sure that out of a budget of $5 billion we have $250,000 to invest in this program,” Burroughs said.
In a press release sent to Telemundo 44, County Executive Angela Alsobrooks assured that the fiscal year 2024 budget is adjusted due to several factors, including new funding obligations imposed by the funding formula under the plan for the future. from Maryland. That plan legally required the county to spend an additional $88.4 million on education this year, which was nearly half of all new spending in the county budget.
Other authorities are also disappointed by this veto.
“With this program we go to prisons. It is a unique program in that sense. We offer six months of intensive training, professional development, as well as personal development, so that when people return home, they have real opportunities waiting for them and mentors who can help guide them, which is why this program is unique and very necessary,” said Aisha Braveboy, the county attorney general.
The program is organized through the Braveboy office and offers anger management assistance, mental health help, and employment opportunities, among others.
