By Ruby Thomas, Record Staff Writer
Governor Matt Bevin announced June 21 the creation of a bipartisan Criminal Justice Policy Assessment Council (CJPAC) — a 23 member panel that will work to create a “smarter, stronger and fairer system of justice” in the state of Kentucky.
Among the 23 people appointed by the governor is Bishop William Medley, a former priest of the Archdiocese of Louisville and bishop of the Diocese of Owensboro, Ky. The Catholic Conference of Kentucky (CCK) — the public policy arm of the state’s four bishops, including Bishop Medley — has been advocating for the creation of such an initiative.
Jason Hall, executive director of the CCK, said in a phone interview June 21 that the conference “applauds” the governor’s decision. Hall said that the Catholic bishops have been calling for “a more restorative approach” to the justice system for decades.
The conference also said in a statement that the “Catholic Church in Kentucky welcomes this opportunity” to help improve the justice system through Bishop Medley’s inclusion on the council.
“The governor is trying to bring in all the voices — prosecutors, social scientists, local government to say ‘what can we do?’ ” said Hall. The fact that he decided to reach out to a Catholic bishop, is “very positive,” he said.
Bishop Medley made mention of the diversity on the council in the statement from the conference.
“All Catholics are called to work toward building up the common good through the political process,” Bishop Medley said following the announcement of his appointment. “The council’s other members represent an astonishingly diverse set of viewpoints and areas of expertise. I am honored to serve with them.”
Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz, chair of the CCK’s board of directors, said in the statement that he’s grateful a bishop was included on the council.
“Governor Bevin’s creation of a council to study criminal justice and possible reforms creates an exciting opportunity and I am grateful for Bishop Medley’s inclusion,” said Archbishop Kurtz. “I know he will represent us well.”
According to a press release from the governor’s office, the panel will be working through the end of the year seeking “expert advice” and studying “data-driven evidence.” They will present recommendations for reforms in the 2017 General Assembly.
Governor Bevin said in the statement that he aims to improve the state’s justice system.
“From the very beginning, America has been a land of second chances. Even so, many in our criminal justice system are not given a path forward to become productive members of society after they have served their time,” said the governor. “I believe in the importance of supporting basic human dignity. When we hold individuals fully accountable for their actions while treating them with respect in the process, all of society benefits.”
Hall said the conference hopes the council’s work will result in “areas of broad consensus that’s meaningful” in reducing recidivism, strengthening families and creating greater opportunities for former convicts to reintegrate into society.
“A big problem with the system is that often times a conviction follows someone for life and prevents them from getting beyond it,” said Hall. “Restorative justice is the key.”
Kentucky has made strides in enacting reforms to the justice system in recent years. During the 2016 session, the General Assembly passed legislation that allows for the expungement of certain non-violent felony convictions.
Close to half a billion dollars was spent last year on corrections, including to incarcerate individuals for non-violent crimes, and Kentucky is leading the nation in the number of children with a parent behind bars, the statement said.
Justice and public safety secretary John Tilley will lead the council and Lieutenant Governor Jenean Hampton will serve as a special advisor while also acting as a liaison to the governor.
