I don't know how many of you read the article about the fact that Gov Napolitano basically ignores the sentence reduction recommendations from the Board of Executive Clemency. On May 22, 2005 the article "Clemency Vote Goes Unheeded" ran in the Az Republic.

Here is the link (I hope it works)

http://www.azcentral.com/specials/special21/articles/0522clemency22.html

Anyway, I know the Board is hard to get past. My husand was turned down the first time, but has twice been recommended the to Gov for immediate release.

I am asking that everyone write, not about him, or even indicate that they have a loved one incarcerated. I am trying to get Arizona citizens to write simply stating that it is time that the Governor accept the Board recommendations. They are paid to review cases and interview the inmate before making recommendations. She should accept their opinion and stop blocking the release of inmates who have passed the two phase hearing process.

As it stands, the Gov's 2 legal advisors have more weight than the board, yet they never actually speak to the inmate. It is time the Gov follows the system that is set up and allow these inmates to be released as per the board recommendation.

By the way, in most states the Board is the final say. the Gov cannot block it. The legislature tried to pass a bill removing the Gov from the process, but it died in committee back in Jan 2005.

Maybe we can start to make a difference if we get active.

Thanks!

Faithfulforever

Very well said...I was hoping to see something done with this bill as well.

Contact information for the Governor


The Honorable Janet Napolitano
Governor of Arizona
1700 West Washington
Phoenix, Arizona 85007

Telephone 602-542-4331

Fax 602-542-1381

http://www.governor.state.az.us/global/contact.htm

Thanks Mel,

I know there was a lot of talk about this bill, so it was disappointing to see it die.

I was hoping that the fact that at least some of the legislators see that the Gov turns down so many recommendations that they might make a change. And then that big article in the paper drawing attention to the problem.

I was also hoping that if voters were to contact her and encourage her to follow the recommendations it would help at least a few people.

I know how hard it is to get a recommendation from the board. I have been before the Board 3 times for Phase I hearings, and twice now for Phase II. Both of the Phase II hearings resulted in recommendations to the Gov. It is so frustrating if she just ignores them after all that. She just has her legal staff look at it and make recommendations to her, yet that is the purpose of the board. Why even have a board if she will only release those on their death beds?

I again am asking people to contact her, by email, letter, phone or fax and simply state that it is time she listens to the board. I would not go into a long drawn out letter as that may hurt more than help. As tax payers, however, you could state that your money is being wasted by her refusal to accept these recommendations. Letting inmates out early would save the state money and ease over crowding. The board has met these candidates and feels they are deserving of a lesser sentence. And they are wasting tax payers money to pay the board and their staff if she is just going to ignore their findings.

I know it can be scary for people to put a name on a letter, but one of these times it could be one of their loved ones, and they will wish others had tried.

Thanks again.

I agree with what you are saying and I understand your frustration...however I am not a resident of Arizona. In the past I have contacted different reps within the legislature, they usually always respond but then they also want me to reply with which district I am in, and a address and contact #. So beings I am not a AZ resident, does my opinion even have a voice?

Hi Mel, I totally hear you on that.

I do not live in Arizona, even though I used to. I was not meaning to make you feel bad, I am just making a plea to anyone who might read this and wants to make a difference.

I see you have until 2008 to wait? My husband has been in since 1998, and due out in late 2006 if nothing changes. It has been a long haul, but he is worth the wait, so I am here for him. I am just trying to help him and any others get a fair shake.

Thanks for replying!

Faithful...you didn't make me feel bad....we're all in this together and if I can help in anyway I defenitley will. 2006? Thats great news, I know its been a long wait but it won't be too much longer and your husband will be home with you! Take Care and stay positive!