Everett’s repeat offender ordinance a necessary step

Published 1:30 am Friday, December 29, 2023

Regarding a recent story (“Everett approves minimum jail sentences for repeat offenders,” The Herald, Dec. 21):

Although there may be some truth to the argument that adding jail time for repeated petty offenses targets an already beleaguered group of human beings, the other human beings who live in proximity to this group are often the victims of the thefts, vandalism, assaults etc. that are repeatedly committed by them deserve a respite. Especially in cases where addiction plays a major role in the background of these people’s lives, to take away the threat of jail time removes the best incentive the city possesses, to motivate voluntary participation in any diversion plan, such as drug treatment or counseling and housing.

Recent liberalization of laws around petty crime appears to have accelerated the deterioration of the public space in towns like Everett, causing a growing impatience among law-abiding folks with the paralysis of law enforcement against widespread antisocial criminal and occasionally deadly behavior. Restoring at least a threat of punishment gives our community a fulcrum to encourage repeat offenders into treatment. It need not be implemented if the individual completes the treatment, something that many addicts will admit was central in helping them get clean and sober.

Good idea, council.

Don Dillinger

Snohomish