Milwaukee, WI — In response to growing concerns over reckless driving incidents in Milwaukee County, a local advocacy group, Enough is Enough, has mobilized volunteers to monitor the judicial proceedings involving such cases. This new initiative aims to scrutinize the sentencing of individuals convicted of reckless driving felonies, with about 800 cases currently on the docket.
The group was spurred into action by personal tragedy, following the loss of Erin Mogensen, a 32-year-old who was pregnant when fatally struck by a reckless driver last fall. Her mother, Ruth Ehrgott, is at the forefront of the campaign, viewing it as a part of her daughter’s legacy. “Everyone needs to know about Erin,” Ehrgott stated, emphasizing the profound personal loss that fuels her commitment.
Volunteers for the program have undertaken the task of attending court sessions, taking notes, and providing community impact statements. Their presence is intended to emphasize the communal demand for accountability and justice in cases of dangerous driving.
This citizen-led oversight is seen by the group as essential in ensuring the judiciary recognizes the broader community impact of their decisions. Jeanne Lupo, leading the court watch program, mentioned that frequently, individuals involved in reckless driving incidents have a history of similar offenses, underscoring the need for stringent judicial oversight.
Ehrgott and Lupo have also started compiling data on sentencing patterns for reckless driving offenses, noting that such analytics are not currently maintained by the offices of either the Chief Judge or the Deputy District Attorney. Their goal is to generate a comprehensive look at how these crimes are being adjudicated, hoping to influence stronger and more consistent sentencing.
The initiative has been acknowledged by both the county’s Chief Judge, Carl Ashley, and the Deputy District Attorney, Kent Lovern. While Ashley expressed hope that the judiciary would remain impartial and just regardless of public scrutiny, he welcomed the involvement of community members in the judicial process. Similarly, Lovern, who is running unopposed in the upcoming election for top prosecutor, indicated that while his office often makes strong sentencing recommendations, the ultimate decisions lie with the courts.
“What we’re looking for,” Lovern commented, “are appropriate sentences that match the severity of the crimes, ensuring that those endangering lives face suitable consequences.”
Through their efforts, Enough is Enough plans to eventually publicize their findings, providing the community with transparent insights into whether reckless drivers are being held adequately responsible by the legal system. This move is intended to foster a more informed public discourse on the effectiveness of the local criminal justice system in handling such perilous offenses.
The Enough is Enough initiative highlights a proactive community engagement in monitoring and influencing the judicial process, reflecting a broader push for civic responsibility and transparency in the handling of public safety threats.