WHAT'S ON YOUR MIND
By Scott Hennen
Host of “What’s On Your Mind?” Radio Show
heard on the Flag Family Network including KTGO 1090AM in Watford City, Williston and Tioga, North Dakota
There comes a point when common sense demands action. That point is now. If you’re a taxpayer in North Dakota, you have every right to be outraged over what just happened in Fargo - and the deeper pattern it represents.
Joseph Manitowabi, a 3-time repeat violent offender, was supposed to be serving a two-year prison sentence. Instead, he was out on the streets, smoking meth in a downtown parking ramp and viciously assaulting three Fargo police officers. That’s right - three officers were attacked by a man who shouldn’t have even been free. It’s outrageous, and yet it’s a scene that has become far too common in our state.
Why are we allowing violent criminals to repeatedly slip through the cracks? Why do we keep making excuses for letting them out early? And how can anyone honestly say we “back the blue” while turning around and making officers risk their lives to arrest the same violent offenders over and over?
Sadly this is not an isolated incident. Violent crime is increasing in North Dakota, and it’s no mystery why - we keep releasing violent criminals before they’ve served their full sentences. It’s insane. We are allowing the department in charge of incarcerating violent offenders to release them before their sentences are served. Wrap your mind around that!
A prison sentence should mean just that - a full prison sentence. Not “good time,” not early release in a “transitional facility.” If a judge gives two years for a violent crime, the offender should serve 730 days. Period. Anything less is a betrayal of public safety.
For the full story, visit www.watfordcitynd.com and subscribe to the McKenzie County Farmer today!