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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Matter of Opinion

Get out of jail

Two reactions to this stunning story in Saturday's paper in which we learn that 27 percent of felony suspects are let go for lack of follow-up paperwork.

1. This was released by the Sheriff's Office? Guess Knezovich was serious about transparency and accountability.

2. What the heck?!?! How did it get to be so bad? The various players in the article all have explanations, but why didn't someone step up publicly and say how bad it was? You wouldn't have to know the precise figures to know that something is seriously wrong.

"I'm not sure if it's a law enforcement problem or a prosecutorial decision," said Utah-based consultant David Bennett.

Seems like this would've been a bigger deal in the races for a variety of offices.

Your thoughts on this? I know we have some law enforcement folks who read and react at times. Be interested in their thoughts.

Here's the consultant's report.

(S-R file photo)



A Matter of Opinion is really a matter of three opinions – those held by the people responsible for the opinion pages of The Spokesman-Review. Check in regularly to find out what they’re up to, what they think and where they differ and to joust with them if you want.