Our non-compassionate criminal justice system has given us a huge prison population with a poor recidivism rate. Tough on crime has led to little good but has disrupted many lives. For example, people can be sent to jail because they could not raise bail, even when their crimes are minor and non-violent.

A more compassionate approach need not be the same as “soft on crime”. We need a District Attorney who understands the difference. Violent and hardened criminals should go to jail to protect the rest of us. Manny Nneji has had an outstanding record sending serious criminals to jail. Those caught up in minor and non-violent offenses, who show signs they can be rehabilitated, should be given their opportunity.

Manny Nneji is open to restorative justice when it is appropriate. He should continue as District Attorney because he is the right man for the job.