MGT Update - New Legislation

[Forevermah]

 
 As IPT posted before, NEW MGT legislation is being developed now!

Meetings are being held and discussions underway about this legislation, more information, possibly late this coming week, stay tuned!!

We are once again going to be asking our IPT family for help, in making calls and possibly going to Springfield in regards to bringing this to the eyes of legislatures/Springfield, I will be posting more details as we get them.


This is the MGT Background pdf that is still in progress, it may be changed:

MGT Background

[TimeStandsStill]

   Thanks for that great news!!

[NeddieB]

Thank you so much Mah for posting this.  I will stay tuned and do my part in bringing this to the attention of our legislatures. 

[Forevermah]

Just so everyone knows, the MGT DRAFT BACKGROUND is just that,a DRAFT, to be changed, so please don't post saying there are things that may not be filled in etc, it's still being worked on and as stated, I will update it.

[seaturtle]

Wow !   What great news.  Once again (and always) Thanks for keeping us up to date on developments IPT.

[lovinhim11]

So I thought nothing was going to be done till next yr. I thought they were going to be out of session about the mgt.

[Forevermah]

So I thought nothing was going to be done till next yr. I thought they were going to be out of session about the mgt.

No one from IPT ever said that!!!!

[Ira]

Great news! I hope it works out this time, one way or another....

[lovinhim11]

i thought it was going to be in the spring....my bad sorry

[Steadfast]

May I ask who developed the MGT draft that you posted?  Is it IPT or a member of the state legistature?  In other words, who is driving this train?

[Mjdrg]

Another couple quick questions to add to the list - do we know who is sponsoring for this session? I know we had trouble last session with no one picking it up, I was just curious if the legislators who picked it up at the end are again going to be spearheading it.
Also I was wondering if it will have a chance in the fall to go to the floor or if it will just be in committee and heard in the spring.

I'm starting to get the hang of the whole politics thing (I think, anyway) . Who would have thought an incarceration would be the driving force to make me understand politics! 

[Brit021511]

What is the purpose of a MGT Background?

[LovinDB]

 

[rottiemama2003]

i thought it was going to be in the spring....my bad sorry

If you read back in the threads, if my memory serves me, we would see what happen in the fall and now it is fall.  Something this serious can't wait and sit. I thanks all that is working so hard in the back ground I like the draft, but need some   and reread so i can get a better grasp.

[Forevermah]

For now, until I get more information, I am reposting what I wrote above and as soon as I know more I WILL post it!!   



Meetings are being held and discussions underway about this legislation, more information, possibly late this coming week, stay tuned!!

[smiley64]

Mah,

Thanks for the update. I have been telling my l/o that legislation will be back in the fall. The counselors at Lawrence have been telling them that it is back and that they( i don't know if that refers to IDOC or legislators) just had a meeting yesterday. They told him it will be back by the end of the month so now he thinks he will be home November 15. A little over a week ago he said he heard it from another inmate and the inmate said his counselor told him that. I tried to tell him IDOC does not make the decision and that there is nothing on IPT saying that, but they all have their hopes up that is already back. When I tell him not to believe it he gets frustrated. Why do the counselors tell them that? I know it keeps inmates happy to hear that it is back but when the month is over and it is not here, they will know that they lied to them. Do the counselors not care? Are they doing what IDOC tells them? I am so frustrated!#@*

[Eileen33us]

Thanks Mah! You give the word and my phone will be on fire!!! 

[chantygirl]

I'm not from Illinois, so, I don't know how much help I'd be to call.. but.. you say the word and i'm on it! 

[Pamalynn]

I told hubby about this to cheer him up - he was feeling very low this evening. I would go to Springfield any day if I can help bring MGT back. Count me in.

[RT]

May I ask who developed the MGT draft that you posted?  Is it IPT or a member of the state legistature?  In other words, who is driving this train?

The Governor drives this train, but he appears to not know what he is doing! This is a legislative issue trying to force the governor's hand. As we have stated before, the legislators can pass ANY law they want, but it takes Quinn's signature to make it law. I want to warn everyone, do not get too excited about MGT. Quinn got his proverbial "tit in a wringer" when his opponent called him on the carpet for the last screw up with MGT. Let just take it slow here until we get closer to when things are supposed to happen. Believe me, when this goes ahead, the media will be all over this. All I can say at this point is proceed with caution.


Rick

[veracity]

The MGT issue involves several angles and any proposals have to address them all. There's overcrowding and the budget but there's also the issue of public safety. I think the public safety issue is the biggest hurdle to overcome with any politician. They can't appear to be soft on crime or have empathy for criminals. The draft does a great job addressing the budget and overcrowding issues but in my opinion needs to address how new legislation will also protect the interests of public safety. The perception seems to be that once released they're free to do whatever they want and no one is watching. Inclusion of the requirements of MSR and stats about how many are sent back to prison for parole violations might help alleviate fears. The public needs to know the legislature did their job by requiring MSR and that there is no way to insure someone released from prison will not commit another crime. It doesn't matter if they served all their sentence or were released a few months early.

[rottiemama2003]

The MGT issue involves several angles and any proposals have to address them all. There's overcrowding and the budget but there's also the issue of public safety. I think the public safety issue is the biggest hurdle to overcome with any politician. They can't appear to be soft on crime or have empathy for criminals. The draft does a great job addressing the budget and overcrowding issues but in my opinion needs to address how new legislation will also protect the interests of public safety. The perception seems to be that once released they're free to do whatever they want and no one is watching. Inclusion of the requirements of MSR and stats about how many are sent back to prison for parole violations might help alleviate fears. The public needs to know the legislature did their job by requiring MSR and that there is no way to insure someone released from prison will not commit another crime. It doesn't matter if they served all their sentence or were released a few months early.

I agree

[Tonysgirl]

very well said veracity... u for sure are getting a karma from me!!! 

[Dazzler]

Whoever wrote the background to MGT left the dates of Gov. Thompson's inception blank....here's a few facts they might want to include:


ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
GOOD CONDUCT POLICY HIGHLIGHTS

February 1, 1978 ‐ Governor James R. Thompson
 With the implementation of determinate sentencing, day‐for‐day good conduct credits were
applied so that one day of good conduct credit would be awarded for each day an inmate
serves his or her sentence of imprisonment. 730 ILCS 5/3‐6‐3)(a)(2.1)

 Meritorious Good Time (MGT) was enacted, in which the Corrections Director may award up to
90 days good conduct credit “for meritorious service in specific instances as the Director deems
proper.” These good conduct credits replaced statutory and compensatory credits allowed
under the previous (indeterminate) sentencing structure. 730 ILCS 5/3‐6‐3)(a)(3)

June 6, 1980 ‐ Governor James R. Thompson
 “Early release” was implemented as the prison population continued to exceed rated capacity,
allowing eligible inmates to receive multiple 90 day MGT awards. In June 1981 “early release”
was termed “forced release” and in September 1982 the criteria for forced release was
expanded.

July 13, 1983 – Governor James R. Thompson
 Forced release was then terminated when the Illinois State Supreme Court ruled that only 90
days of MGT could be awarded for any one incarceration (see Lane v. Sklodowski, 1983).

July 13, 1990 – Governor James R. Thompson
 Supplemental Meritorious Good Time (SMGT) was implemented, where inmates could be
awarded up to 180 days of good conduct credit for meritorious service. Certain inmates
convicted of more serious offenses are only eligible for 90 days of credit. 730 ILCS 5/3‐6‐3)(a)(3)

September 10, 1990 ‐ Governor James R. Thompson
 Educational Good Conduct Credits were granted for completion of educational programs at a
rate of 0.25/day. 730 ILCS 5/3‐6‐3)(a)(4)

August 11, 1993 ‐ Governor Jim Edgar
 Earned Good Conduct Credit (EGCC) was created for satisfactory completion of educational,
vocational, substance abuse treatment, and correctional industries programs. The credit was
awarded at a rate of 0.5/day. Certain inmates convicted of more serious offenses and repeat
felony offenders were ineligible.

December 22, 1994 ‐ Governor Jim Edgar
 The Illinois Supreme Court ruled in Barger v. Peters that inmates who committed their crimes
during the period that the old EGCC law was in effect (September 10, 1990 to August 11, 1993)
continued to remain eligible for EGCC for educational programs at the rate of 0.25/day.
‐MORESource:
Illinois Department of Corrections

January 1995 ‐ Governor Jim Edgar
 The Illinois Supreme Court in People v. Jameson stated that inmates sentenced as Class X
(highest non‐murder level) offenders due to their criminal history, but convicted of Class 1 or 2
(next lower levels) offenses, should still be treated as Class 1 or 2 felons in regard to EGCC
awards.

June 19, 1998 – Governor Jim Edgar
 Truth‐in‐Sentencing laws were enacted. Inmates serving a term of imprisonment for first
degree murder or terrorism receive no good conduct credit and serve the entire sentence
imposed by the court; inmates sentenced to prison for selected offenses receive no more than
4.5 days of good conduct credit for each month of their sentence; and inmates sentenced to
prison for selected drug offenses receive no more than 7.5 days of good conduct credit for each
month of their sentence. Inmates convicted of any truth‐in‐sentencing offense committed on or
after June 19, 1998 are ineligible to receive additional good conduct credits. 730 ILCS 5/3‐6‐
3)(a)(2)‐(2.5)

December, 2001 – Governor George Ryan
 The Third and Fourth District Appellate Courts, in Howell v. Snyder and Guzzo v. Snyder,
determined that the IDOC could not refuse offender good time credit based on an unwritten
policy of excluding offenders with domestic battery arrests, convictions or with orders of
protections. This set a standard whereby MGT/SMGT may be awarded based only on offender
conduct during incarceration.

September 1, 2003 ‐ Governor Rod Blagojevich
 Inmates refusing to be placed on the substance abuse waiting list can be denied EGCC if the
inmate has a court sentencing order that recommends substance abuse treatment. 730 ILCS
5/3‐6‐3)(a)(4.5)

July 7, 2005 ‐ Governor Rod Blagojevich
 Inmates can be awarded an additional 60 days of good conduct credit for passing the high
school level Test of General Educational Development (GED). 730 ILCS 5/3‐6‐3)(a)(4.1)

June 1, 2008 ‐ Governor Rod Blagojevich
 Inmates convicted of a sex offense could receive no good conduct credit unless they either have
successfully completed or are participating in sex offender treatment. 730 ILCS 5/3‐6‐3)(a)(4.6)

[Dazzler]

Veracity, whether an inmate is released on MGT or not they are still monitored by the parole department.  Public safety shouldn't be anymore or less a concern...we're talking about 3 or 6 months.  The problem is IDOC not researching the background of who they release early...they let a few bad apples out of the bushel in 2009 and that was the downfall...stupidity and sloppy work.

[Steadfast]

Gee, I wish Thompson was still governor. 

[veracity]

We here on IPT know the truth about the MGT suspension thanks to you Dazz, but I think the media & Brady did a number on the public and the rest of the legislature. The truth gets lost and the fear mongers take hold. Every news story concerning a new crime makes sure to include if the suspect was a former inmate or just recently released from prison. It keeps the myth alive that all inmates are bad people and someone you should fear. I'm just saying including a new angle can't hurt.

[Dazzler]

Unfortunately the fearmongers and their supporters are allowed to vote.......and Quinn knows this...

The state really screwed up when they let a guy out that had been previously incarcerated for murder or attempted murder was released on MGT Push....that was the downfall....

[rottiemama2003]

Unfortunately the fearmongers and their supporters are allowed to vote.......and Quinn knows this...

The state really screwed up when they let a guy out that had been previously incarcerated for murder or attempted murder was released on MGT Push....that was the downfall....

Knowing IL, it could have been place to happen like that. My opinion. They knew if it would fail then they would have Quinn in the britches. Then the fear mongers would say if this happen out vote will go else where. Snare and a Racket.

Rottie

[shorttimer]

Reading this give me some hope on my upcoming sentence but I will not hold my breath.....hopefully we will have some real news before next Thursday(D-Day)./..thanks for all the info.....really helpful

[ChivanSmith]

Veracity, whether an inmate is released on MGT or not they are still monitored by the parole department.  Public safety shouldn't be anymore or less a concern...we're talking about 3 or 6 months.  The problem is IDOC not researching the background of who they release early...they let a few bad apples out of the bushel in 2009 and that was the downfall...stupidity and sloppy work.

I agree 100000000000000 %. They should have done a background on ALL who were released early. They refuse to look at the bigger picture here! These are all excuses if you ask me.

[pac5401]

My LO has been talking about this for the past couple of weeks.  He too said his counselor was telling him about it and they even calculated early out dates. 

It's hard to tell them to remember than anything can happen, but I sure do hope it goes through!  I told him I would check with what IPT had to say on the matter.  So glad I looked in this thread!

[mserer]

I'm going to apologize right off the bat if this is a stupid question, but, what is the difference between this new legislation and the legislation that is in a committee hearing on November 8?  My L.O. and I are cautious in putting our hopes on any of this type legislation but it is hard not to get excited about it - I just don't want to see his hopes dashed if it is nothing (if that makes sense).  On another note, thank you all for this site and support - you have been a great source of comfort and information over the past few months since this ordeal began!

[rottiemama2003]

Only stupid question is an unasked question. You are right to not to get your hopes up, so don't feel bad about being cautious, there nothing wrong with it. I am not good at understanding the legal part of this, but some one will come along and answer it in more detail.

[snshess]

I just spoke to my hubby...He was telling me (i know many rumors start in prison but wanted to see what people here have to say) that his supervisor (he works outside grounds and maintenance), received an email about MGT possibly coming back but with changes (as I see have been stated) like the first 90 are given after 61 days of being incarcerated and the next 90 have to be earned by the inmate.  The 180 days will not be given upfront.  Also in the email was that all prisons and inmates are getting reclassified and that many changes will be forth coming to IDOC.  Inmates are not properly placed.  I told him not to get his hopes up and what will be will be.

I hope all does work out for all of our loved ones and I live in Wisconsin but I will do whatever I need to to help this all happen.

[rottiemama2003]

Thanks for sharing

[momofboys]

and what about the people only serving 180 days! If and WHEN do they get there 61 days then they would be released?? I would be really nice if they brought it back SOON! My husband has passed his 61st day!

[Dazzler]

Don't count on it...and I doubt that 61 day sentences will ever be eligible again if it's restored in the future....

[TimeStandsStill]

I am so sick of hearing rumors that come from counselors, other inmates, and yes even from some LO's of inmates (sorry)

....I wish something or nothing would definitely be done already so we could move on to something else!   

[rottiemama2003]

I understand just what you mean !!!!!!! And some one always want to be the first one to spread it. Just like the stuff that gets on your shoes, from the pig pen.

[Crowe29]

The last point on that long list...about SO's...what if he's in there on a failure to register charge, does he still have to take classes to earn credit or can he get mgt credit added just like that? confused  ...as always, lol!

[Cashyc]

I am so sick of hearing rumors that come from counselors, other inmates, and yes even from some LO's of inmates (sorry)

....I wish something or nothing would definitely be done already so we could move on to something else!   

   

I sooo agree 1,000%....took the words right outta my mouth.

[Dazzler]

Nothing has been drawn up yet...no one knows what the criteria will be except that it won't just be given away to everyone for no reason....it's called 'meritorious'....they need to do something that earns them some merit.

[Crowe29]

Thanks Dazz! Now I understand the meaning of the word 'meritorious'...never really thought about why it was called that, lol! silly me!

[tommiegirl2743]

  I did call the Governors Office today and finally spoke to gentleman that seem to know what he was talking about. The early release bill is being reviewed right now and once that is done it will be given to the Governor for his signature. I believe that if we all call and stress our concerns that it will make a difference the number is (217)782-0244. The gentleman said that once it is reviewed and pass the non violent offenders could be released. I think that it is such a waste of tax paying dollars to lock up some non violent offenders, it is so expensive to keep them locked up. I know it helps those towns were are love ones are incarcerated, but who's problem is that, so you punish one family to help another family. You have to be honest some of the things that our men are locked up for is down right dumb.

[Dazzler]

The men that man those phones in the Governor's office are volunteers....they usually know NOTHING...they just appease people calling the governor's office and say they'll pass along the information.

Why is it that no one will believe a thing I say in this thread?  I just posted that new legislation is being drawn up to take before the Spring Session...it hasn't even been written yet and it certainly hasn't been approved to send on to the Governor for signing...

[Steadfast]

Dazzler, do you happen to know just when the Spring Session will meet on this (month, not date and time)?  I trust what you tell us, as I have also been inundated with rumors from my L/O passed on to him from counselors, doctors, other prisoners, etc.  Tired of hearing the rumors, just want the God's honest truth, even if it is bad news.

[Forevermah]

http://www.ilga.gov/house/schedules/default.asp

[Dazzler]

Even when it's introduced it gets assigned to a committee....in the Senate and in House...it must be approved in both houses...then after all the committees and votes it will go to the Governor....next summer would be earliest that I'd even think about it...

Like I've said, the IDOC is concerned about overcrowding also and may be working on it's own early release plan but they are in touch with our group and are backing this new proposed legislation also....this came straight from Godinez's mouth..through another party to me...the prison staffs are telling inmates what they want to hear to shut them up....I could do that here too...but what would be the point?

[Crowe29]

I did call the Governors Office today and finally spoke to gentleman that seem to know what he was talking about. The early release bill is being reviewed right now and once that is done it will be given to the Governor for his signature. I believe that if we all call and stress our concerns that it will make a difference the number is (217)782-0244. The gentleman said that once it is reviewed and pass the non violent offenders could be released. I think that it is such a waste of tax paying dollars to lock up some non violent offenders, it is so expensive to keep them locked up. I know it helps those towns were are love ones are incarcerated, but who's problem is that, so you punish one family to help another family. You have to be honest some of the things that our men are locked up for is down right dumb.

When I read this my heart sank...as much as I want my B home, I'm so not ready. And yes, Dazz is right...it'll take a while and next summer seems realistic.

[tommiegirl2743]

  Since I am kinda new at this I only have one question and that is where do you get your information from? I have saw a few things in the pass that were quetionable, and it turned out totally diffrent from what was said on PT

[Dazzler]

Usually from the horse's mouth....

[TimeStandsStill]

It's been a while since I've heard that saying....Now I have the Mr. Ed theme song in my head....too funny!

[Tonia31]

 

I just wanted to say thank you for all the information you have posted....this site is the only info I trust

[JDsMom]

I'm sure when and if it happens, there will be many joyous homecomings for some of our members!  I've always thought that when it's a drug offense, why not have one prison that is just for drug rehab, and send them there instead of the other places.....A year in rehab can work wonders, and knowing when they get out of there, and choose to use again, it will be prison, not rehab ......Over the years I have known alot of people who come out of prison worse than they were when they went in!

[Dazzler]

I think I remember hearing that about 80% of all incarcerations are drug related in some way....we'd need more than one rehab prison....

[TimeStandsStill]

Both Sheridan & Southwestern are dedicated to substance abuse treatment; not exactly sure if it's the same as rehab but it's better than nothing.

There just isn't enough space.....

[Mrs.Habben]

My Lo is in East Moline, and he is in for Drugs, he got sentenced to 9 yrs. He is putting in for his transfer to Southwestern, and they keep you in classes and to cut your time, and one of the classes is all about drugs so it is getting them good time and drug treatment. Its farther away, but much better for them, and i know him being in there it has changed him alot, and he has changed but he wants the drug treatment to help him further. So its alot better, and I am excited for him to go
 

[blah2u]

Mrs. Habben - my hubby is at Southwestern now so if your L/O does get transferred and you have questions please PM me and I'd be happy to answer what I can.

[jna]

The men that man those phones in the Governor's office are volunteers....they usually know NOTHING...they just appease people calling the governor's office and say they'll pass along the information.

Why is it that no one will believe a thing I say in this thread?  I just posted that new legislation is being drawn up to take before the Spring Session...it hasn't even been written yet and it certainly hasn't been approved to send on to the Governor for signing...

I don't think it's that no one believes what you say...... it's just that some of the info is old..... and alot of us are new......... I truly mean no disrespect, please have a little more patience please..

[Dazzler]

All the info in this thread is brand new...just look at the dates of posting...I thoroughly explained what is going to happen and then someone will ask the same question or post yet another rumor....it's very frustrating.  Please read the thread before commenting....

[jna]

All the info in this thread is brand new...just look at the dates of posting...I thoroughly explained what is going to happen and then someone will ask the same question or post yet another rumor....it's very frustrating.  Please read the thread before commenting....

I did read the thread.  When a member calls and talks to someone that they think is reputable, can you blame them for bringing info here?  It looks like from the number of this persons posts that she/he is new. 

[hinkleboys]

After reading through some of these posts, I keep reading that there are other things that IDOC can do to realease inmates early without MGT and SMGT.  Could someone explain what that would be?  Thanks in adavance!

[Dazzler]

There's something called EHM...electronic home monitor...that is in the statutes of Illinois.  It allows the IDOC to release inmates on the tracking monitor to their parole sites.  If they implemented this more it would free up some of the overcrowding...

[rubyslippers]

Hi!
So with the EHM, do they get released when a certain amount of their time has been served? Or are there specific criteria for their use?
I thought home monitoring was when they do their parole after their time in prison had been served? Is this the same?
Sorry for all the ?? but I am pretty new.
Thank you-
Vanesa

[Dazzler]

Some inmates are released on monitors when they are paroled.  And others are eligible for EHM before their sentence is complete...however the IDOC isn't giving it out.  And it would be a simple solution as it's already law.  There's lots of info here about EHM, just do a search.

[Mrs.Habben]

      Thank you Blah, I will for sure be asking questions!!!

[chocolatediva27]

Hello,I'm new too this site, my hubby says the same thing about he really hopes they give them back the good time credits, he's really hopefully,but I don't know I really don't know too much about the prison system works but since I've been on here I'm learning more, thanks for all of the information 

[tommiegirl2743]

  Please don't forget to call Springfield  this week and ask about the New Legislation going up for approval on December 1, 2011  the number to call and ask questions or give an input is. If it don't help it won't hurt.
 
       

[TimeStandsStill]

That meeting was a committee meeting in Chicago regarding overcrowding and had no legislative bills attached to it.

Besides....the meeting has been cancelled:

97th General Assembly
Judiciary II - Criminal Law Committee
CANCELED ** Canceled **
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Members Notice of Hearing Bills   
 
Hearing Scheduled for Dec 01, 2011

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Chairperson  Constance Howard
Vice-Chairperson  Emily McAsey
Republican Spokesperson  Dennis Reboletti
Scheduled Date: Dec 01, 2011 10:00AM
Location: C-600, 6th Floor Michael A. Bilandic Building
Chicago, IL
Posting Date: Oct 26, 2011 5:27PM
Subject Matter: SUBJECT MATTER: Regarding overcrowding in prisons.
Clerk of the House  Timothy D. Mapes


http://www.ilga.gov/house/committees/hearing.asp?CommitteeID=896&GA=97
 

[Forevermah]

Please don't forget to call Springfield  this week and ask about the New Legislation going up for approval on December 1, 2011  the number to call and ask questions or give an input is . If it don't help it won't hurt.
 
       

Please don't get everyone excited about new legislation that was going to be approved on December 1st.  The new legislation  isn't even written yet, let alone anywhere near being approved and even if it were, it won't bring any kind of program back UNTIL Quinn signs something back in.

 This MGT thing has been going exactly 2 years now, and we all know, even with calling Springfield all the time, there isn't anything happening anytime soon, if ever.

Thanks TSS for posting that this meeting has been canceled for now!

[Crowe29]

Like I've said before, we live as though MGT just never existed. Not to be a Grinch n steal ya'lls hope, but if it ain't come back in 2 years (like Mah said) then my guess is that, as long as Quinn's in office, it won't. And, unless I hear about it on the 10 o'clock news AND from IPT, neither B nor me buy into the rumors. I'm sorry if this is harsh, but I learned that sometimes it's better not to have expectations than keep hoping for something and getting disappointed. Thank you Mah and IPT for keeping us informed. I would love for my B to come home early, but it's just not a possibility so we accept things the way they are and make the best of this awful situation. I wish ya'll the best in going through this ordeal for it's not easy, but please, let's not make it harder by first getting our and our LO's hopes up just to have them crushed.

[Steadfast]

What is maddening about MGT is that you don't learn there is none until after you are in the system.  If Quinn doesn't want to reinstate it, then he should at least send a directive to all the District and State's attorneys and judges to let them know that it no longer exists.  They are still calculating it into the sentences they are recommending for plea bargains and sentencing recommendations. 

[Courage]

I agree with Steadfast. My husband's attorney, who is a very high profile attorney in our city, told him that he would get time off for good time and also for being a first time offender. Through this website, I learned that none of that was true so he knew before he made the plea but it is still frustrating. Is there something we could do to get the word out to the attorneys so they stop telling these false truths?

[Dazzler]

Good time still exists....that's why inmates get a day for a day....if sentenced at 50%.  That's good time....the MGT was a supplemental good time that most other states don't award either...

So if the attorneys are promising good time, it's true....it's if they say an inmate will get an additional six months off for overcrowding that they are wrong...

[veracity]

I agree with Steadfast. The attorney talked about day for day, good time and even more time off for school. I think the prosecutors and judges do figure the extra MGT time because it's still on the books. I don't understand how the gov can change existing legislation like he's God with no input from anybody. Ryan suspended the death penalty but they moved forward to change the law. So there's no time limit for Quinn's supreme suspension? We can have a law on the books but sit in limbo forever??

[Dazzler]

The state legislators got involved when those released on MGT Push were committing crimes...even attempted murder....if you want to really blame someone...blame all the early releasers who couldn't behave and screwed it up for everyone else....and the legislators that pointed it out to the press....

[Steadfast]

I would be curious to learn exactly how many people released on MGT actually committed a new crime after their release.  Was it one or two bad apples, or 50 or 60?  In other words, what percentage of those released reoffended?  Knowing how the media can blow up a story, and how politicians can have knee jerk overreactions, I wouldn't be surprised if it was a relatively small number.  Anywhere we can find this information?

[Forevermah]

The following articles are from December 2009 and March 2010, after the program was canceled.  The Push Program became a major campaign issue and Michael Randle was fired over this whole thing, months later.




Illinois Governor Pat Quinn puts prison early release program on hold

Opponents claim some inmates spent only weeks behind bars before being set free



By William Lee and Monique Garcia Tribune reporters

December 14, 2009

Gov. Pat Quinn has suspended a program that allowed hundreds of inmates to be released early by earning credit for good behavior.

Quinn said Sunday that his office will review the Illinois Department of Corrections' "meritorious good time" release program, which came under fire after an analysis showed some inmates with past convictions for drunken driving, battery and weapons violations spent mere weeks behind bars before release.

Under the program, corrections chief Michael P. Randle may grant any inmate 90 days' worth of credit based on their behavior while behind bars.

The report by the Associated Press found hundreds of inmates were given the good-conduct credit immediately on entering prison, and more than 850 inmates have been released under the program since September.

The good-credit program is separate from a policy previously announced by Quinn to release 1,000 nonviolent offenders early if they are within the last year of their sentence.

That move was aimed at saving hundreds of millions of dollars as the state faces a massive budget deficit. With a prison population of about 45,545, Illinois taxpayers spend more than $1 billion a year on corrections.

Inmates convicted of murder, sex crimes or domestic violence, or who have active orders of protection against them do not qualify for release under Quinn's plan.

Reed wouldn't say if Quinn felt Randle was being too lenient in issuing the good conduct credit, adding "the governor has great respect and regard for Director Randle and his judgment."

A spokeswoman for Randle didn't return calls or e-mails.

The biggest critics of the release program were state prosecutors, who worried that it threatened public safety and put residents at risk. wlee@tribune.com

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-quinn-prisonsdec14,0,7276909.story




Gov. Quinn fires 3 top Department of Corrections administrators


March 12, 2010

BY DAVE McKINNEY Sun-Times Springfield Bureau Chief

SPRINGFIELD — Gov. Quinn’s administration fired three top Department of Corrections administrators Friday after repeated calls for a shake-up over the agency’s botched early release of inmates.

Gone are the prison system’s chief of staff, another top assistant to embattled Corrections Director Michael Randle and an administrator who oversaw operations in northern Illinois.

“As of today, executive assistant to the director Sergio Molina, chief of staff Jim Reinhart and Northern Regional Supervisor Jac Charlier are no longer state of Illinois employees,” prisons spokeswoman Sharyn Elman said. “Since this is a personnel issue, the agency cannot comment further.”

Elman declined to say whether the firings were a result of the early-release programs that Quinn aborted when his primary rival, Comptroller Dan Hynes, made them a major campaign issue.

Molina, a longtime employee with the state prison system, said he was not given an explanation for his firing but added that neither he nor his two former colleagues were responsible for the early-release initiatives.

“The director stood with the governor and accepted full responsibility for the early release program, and that’s precisely where the responsibility lies,” Molina told the Sun-Times.

Quinn’s administration released more than 1,700 inmates, hundreds of whom had violent records, after having been imprisoned for as little as three weeks total time under a secretive early-release program known as “MGT Push.” Another 233 non-violent inmates were freed under a separate, early-release program Quinn’s administration publicized.

In January, after Quinn suspended the programs, the Chicago Sun-Times reported that one of those released early under “MGT Push” was a west suburban man sentenced to prison for murder conspiracy. Another 20 inmates with killings or attempted murder in their criminal backgrounds were released early under the program.

After the primary, House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) expressed surprise that there “hasn’t been some dismissals” in the agency following the early-release debacle. Last week, GOP gubernatorial nominee Bill Brady called on Quinn to fire Randle.

http://www.suntimes.com/news/politics/2099630,quinn-department-of-corrections-inmates-031310.article

[Dazzler]

It doesn't really matter the percentage...all it takes on a trial program like this is for one to commit a violent crime...and it halted the program for everyone.

[ace2011]

Wasn't there a meeting on December 1st? Does anyone know what happened in this meeting or if there is a news article I can read about it? Thanks in advance!

[Skully]

did I miss something because after reading those articles I didnt see where any RE OFFENED! All I saw was that these kinds of inmates were released... And for those who keep thinking mgt will come back... Not happening sorry. We all want it but its not going to happen anytime soon. These meetings are by commities re wording the rules for "if" another program is to be brought to the table. Plus I do believe that commitee meeting was canceled. I firmly believe that no mgt/smgt will come back until Quinn is out of office. Im jus saying please accept that fact lol I feel like a scrooge! But ive done a whole lot of research on this subject and its just not going to happen anytime soon

[TimeStandsStill]

Wasn't there a meeting on December 1st? Does anyone know what happened in this meeting or if there is a news article I can read about it? Thanks in advance!

The meeting was cancelled

[ace2011]

thanks for the response! When is there another election in IL for a new governor?

[TimeStandsStill]

2014

[Crowe29]

did I miss something because after reading those articles I didnt see where any RE OFFENED! All I saw was that these kinds of inmates were released... And for those who keep thinking mgt will come back... Not happening sorry. We all want it but its not going to happen anytime soon. These meetings are by commities re wording the rules for "if" another program is to be brought to the table. Plus I do believe that commitee meeting was canceled. I firmly believe that no mgt/smgt will come back until Quinn is out of office. Im jus saying please accept that fact  I feel like a scrooge! But ive done a whole lot of research on this subject and its just not going to happen anytime soon

That's my attitude exactly Skully...like I've said a few times before, my B and me live as if mgt never existed and will never exist, plain and simple. No expectations, no wishful thinking...he's being paroled in 2012 and is out the system in 2014, by which time it won't matter who the governor is anyway. I feel like a  too Skully, but it's just something we all have to accept.

[Skully]

haha I should just add the fact that if magically one day it does come back I'll dance my ass off whoopin and a hollerin and people will think I'm insane... :) Sorry... Even though you know its not going to happen there is always that one part of you that cant help but to wish...

[KenCatGirl]

 

I agree with you....Im still hoping and praying. Have faith people!

[Crowe29]

Oh def if it magically came back we'd both be beside ourselves with joy...and yeah, somewhere deep down inside I keep hoping it does happen as well. But it won't, so untill then we're still living like it never existed in the first place.

[Mrs.Mcgahee]

Yep they will be home before anything is in place. So only thing they can do is wait out their time and do well when they come home!

[tbgirl]

I just wish people would stop giving them false hope. My guy said his counselor visited him at his cell the other day and told him that they just got "unofficial" word from Springfield that mgt would be back in January 2012. I told him not to hold his breath!

[Bill]

I just wish people would stop giving them false hope. My guy said his counselor visited him at his cell the other day and told him that they just got "unofficial" word from Springfield that mgt would be back in January 2012. I told him not to hold his breath!

There are no plans for MGT to be reinstated period.  Legislation HB 3899 and HB 3900 has been introduced with hearing to be held sometime after leglislature comes back in January. If this legislation passes and Governor sign it then there will good time permitted again. The best way for good time to be allowed again is for family members and others to contact legislators and urge support of these bills as many are now doing. Forget the rumors the only reality for good time is these bills.

[MeetTheBrowns]

Well this is my first time posting on this subject....and I'm NOT going to be a debbie-downer & kill anyone's faith, hopes, & wishes b/c who am I to do so. If ppl want to hold on to the faith & keep wishful thinking then let them...actually encourage them to b/c w/o it what else do you have to hold on to....For some of you ladies l/o mgt won't matter b/c they'll be home safe & sound to even have a concern regarding the bill..but I'm sure they have other inmates that they've gotten close to, friends other family members etc. that unfourtunately is & will be in need of such a program. My l/o has 6 more yrs to do & I/we personally don't even consider goodtime we just accept our time as it was given & continue moving through this difficult process the best we can, besides IM not even sure if goodtime does EVER came back that he would be eligible anyway. He has a class X...for a criminal drug conspirarcy, which I believe knocks him out the box anyway? Which is crazy to me b/c it's not murder or a sex offense etc...I'm not trying to justify or excuse his wrongs but dang..it's drugs why in the world is that a class X but that's niether here or there...it is what is and we've excepted that! But I do want to say to the ppl on here that still have that hope to hold on to it & don't allow anyone one to take that away from you! I wish all of the members on here the best & bright futures!  

[rottiemama2003]

I just wish people would stop giving them false hope. My guy said his counselor visited him at his cell the other day and told him that they just got "unofficial" word from Springfield that mgt would be back in January 2012. I told him not to hold his breath!

My husband said the same thing, this is coming from the counselors. Wish it was some way they could be accountable for the false information. Placing with peoples lives

Rottie

[tracyk]

My husband was also told by his counselor that is was coming back Jan 2012

[tommiegirl2743]

 


This is what I wrote to my State Rep.
Hello Mr. Derrick Smith,

Happy Holidays to you and your family.

I am writing to ask you to please support two new bulls that are trying to become law, that is bill 3899 and 3900. These bills will re-instate the Merit Good Time that our Gov. suspended a few years ago. My husband is in Logan Correctional Facility for driving on suspended license and would be home if the Gov. had not suspended the good time. He is ill and cannot get the proper attention. I agree that if you break the law that you should be punished, but I also say don't keep them caged up like animals. Logan is a minimal security prison, but there are housing 1940 when it should only hold 1500. I hope that you read and support this law so our loved ones can come home.

Thank you in advance

[Forevermah]

This topic is locked, please go to this topic and post about your emails and calls to your Reps.  All your help is needed!!!

Thank You!!

http://www.illinoisprisontalk.org/index.php/topic,25941.0.html