FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 3, 2010

Press Contact: Roger Salazar

(916) 444-8897

Sheriff’s Candidate Calls for State to Let Locals Say NO to Early Release of Violent Offenders

SACRAMENTO – Captain Jim Cooper, a candidate for Sacramento County Sheriff, today released the following statement following a report from the Sacramento Bee that one of the inmates released from Sacramento County Jail as part of the State’s efforts to reduce the prison population was arrested less than 24 hours after getting out of jail:

“I am appalled by the news of the rape arrest of one of the offenders who was released from jail less than 24 hours earlier due to Legislative requirements to reduce the sentences of county inmates.” Cooper said. “The decimation of law enforcement resources due to budget cuts means that our worst fears are becoming reality. Response times to 911 calls have increased, Sheriff’s deputies have been laid off and now the state piles this on top of us. This is unacceptable and it must stop.”

“The state must pass legislation immediately that gives local authorities the ability to have a voice and say no to early release for violent felons who are serving time for minor offenses,” Cooper continued. “We need to make choices that make the safety and security of our communities the highest priority.”

Cooper added. “I agree with the sentiments of Kevin Mickelson, president of the Sacramento County Deputy Sheriff’s Association who said the State has ‘duped the citizens of California into believing they’ve released only nonviolent offenders back into the communities.’ I also share his concerns that the Deputy Sheriff’s Association was not made aware of the planned release of inmates earlier. While our resources are far from adequate at this point, the one thing that we must not skimp on is communication with each other.”

“Losing cops is unacceptable, cutting law enforcement programs is unacceptable, and releasing violent prisoners before the completion of their sentences must end now,” Cooper concluded.

Cooper spent nine of his 25 years in law enforcement undercover taking down gangs and drug dealers and has been honored with a Bronze Star for Bravery. Currently, Cooper leads the High-Tech Crimes Task Force, cracking down on identity thieves and Internet predators that target children online.

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