Felons

New York Governor Vetoes Bill Permitting Felons to Serve on Juries, Citing Implementation Challenges

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ALBANY, N.Y. — In a move that has stirred controversy and disappointment among criminal justice reform advocates, New York Governor Kathy Hochul vetoed legislation on Saturday that would have permitted individuals with felony convictions to serve on juries after completing their sentences. This bill, lauded by its proponents as a step toward inclusivity and balance in the judicial system, sought to overturn the enduring statewide prohibition affecting these individuals. The proposed legislation had cleared both houses of the state legislature earlier in the year, signaling a potential end to the lifelong exclusion of felons from … Read more

New York Takes Historic Step: Convicted Felons to Regain Jury Service Rights

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Albany, N.Y. — In a transformative legislative move, New York is poised to offer convicted felons a chance to serve on juries, lifting a longstanding ban that has been a point of contention in discussions about civil rights and criminal justice reform. This change, pending approval from Governor Kathy Hochul, underscores a significant shift in how the state addresses reintegration and the rights of its formerly incarcerated residents. The revised legislation, which successfully passed through both the Assembly and Senate, would allow individuals with felony convictions to be called for jury duty upon completion of … Read more

ACLU Launches Supreme Court Challenge Against Nebraska Voting Rights Decision for Released Felons

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LINCOLN, Neb. — The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Nebraska has launched a legal challenge against key state election officials, specifically targeting the refusal by Secretary of State Bob Evnen to enact a new policy designed to grant voting rights to felons immediately after their release from prison. This legal contention stems from Evnen’s decision following a determination by Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers, who declared the new legislation unconstitutional. The law in question—known informally as LB 20—sought to amend previous statutes regarding the post-incarceration rights of convicted felons. The heart of the dissent … Read more

Felon’s Airborne Assault on Judge Results in Multiple Felonies and Solitary Confinement

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Las Vegas, Nevada – A viral incident in a Las Vegas courtroom has resulted in serious consequences for the assailant. Deobra Redden, who attacked Judge Mary Kay Holthus during a sentencing hearing, now faces a multitude of felony charges. Initially in court for attempted battery causing substantial bodily harm, Redden’s actions towards the judge have escalated the charges against him. These include coercion with force or threat of force, extortion, intimidation of public officers, disregard of personal and property safety, and battery. Following the attack, Redden is now classified as a “2C” inmate, meaning he … Read more