Infographic Demonstrates How Ridiculous Mass Incarceration Has Become
The mass incarceration problem in the United States is reaching epic proportions. To demonstrate just how out of control mass incarceration has become, one reporter at Vox has studied over 100 years of the United States’ prison records to create a startling infographic showing the shocking rise in incarceration rates. What’s more, New Mexico has a high crime rate. According to FBI data that was compiled into an interactive report, New Mexico is the worst state in the Union as far as cases of burglaries, and was ranked 48th for cases of rape — contributing to these rising numbers.
Mass Incarceration: Why and How?
When looking at the statistics for crime rates in the United States, it is interesting to note that most crime is going down. The FBI reports that property crimes went down 5% from 2013 to 2014, and that violent crimes are down 6.9% over a ten-year period. When considering that crime is down and incarceration is up, this would seem to indicate that while fewer crimes are being committed, more people are being convicted.
With a crackdown on crime in New Mexico, particularly on drug crimes, there is a steady stream of convicted drug users entering state prisons. Many drug crimes are charged as felonies, and prosecutors are often seeking the maximum penalty. Drug crimes are currently being prosecuted at a higher rate than ever before, and the three strike law can mean there is no discretion in the period of time an offender must spend behind bars. Although there are fewer crimes being committed, the sentences imposed can be far longer for repeat offenders.
In light of this trend, repeat drug offenders may be facing long prison sentences for minor crimes. At New Mexico Criminal Law Offices, we have experience in many areas of criminal law, and as trial lawyers, we are zealous defenders of the criminally accused. Whether you are accused of assault and battery, a drug crime, or a white collar crime, the outcome of your case will depend, in large part, upon the skills exhibited by your lawyer. A skilled attorney will be working behind the scenes to negotiate a lesser charge for first-time offenders, juveniles, and others who have been accused of misdemeanor crimes. Don’t risk your future freedom if you are charged with a misdemeanor crime; the impact could be significant, including jail or prison time.
Avoid Becoming Another Statistic–Speak with a New Mexico Criminal Defense Attorney Today
At New Mexico Criminal Law Offices, we fight hard to keep our clients out of jail or prison, starting with the arraignment and bail hearing. Once the case proceeds to trial, we employ strategies to fight for the minimum sentence, or to seek probation rather than incarceration. We have years of trial experience, and are recognized in the legal community for our professional defense work. Contact our office today using our online contact form to discuss your case.