County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas hailed yesterday’s inauguration of Kamala Harris as the state’s new Attorney General, saying her innovative and visionary approach to criminal justice reform offers a new way forward for a system in dramatic need of rehabilitation.
“Kamala Harris’ inauguration as Attorney General marks a new way forward for California’s criminal justice system,” said the Supervisor.
“Los Angeles County’s enthusiastic support for her smart-on-crime policies helped secure her historic victory. I look forward to welcoming her back to the second District next week. She will deliver the keynote address at the 19th annual Empowerment Congress Summit on Saturday, Jan. 15.”
In electing Ms. Harris, the first African-American, Indian-American and woman to hold the office, Mr. Ridley-Thomas said voters, especially in Los Angeles County, had embraced her top priority:
Reducing California’s appalling recidivism rate. About 120,000 prisoners are released on parole annually. Seven of every 10 return to custody within three years. This is the highest recidivism rate in the nation.
Locally, reducing recidivism rate is an important objective for the Supervisor.
Mr. Ridley-Thomas has introduced a slate of recommendations to the Board of Supervisors aimed at curbing recidivism among youth transitioning out of County probation.
He noted that especially on this front but also on development of gang intervention strategies and attention to environmental justice, Ms. Harris promises to be a productive partner.
Jamarah Harris may be contacted at jharris@bos.lacounty.gov
