Bob McDonnell on Crime

Tough statutes and sentences; but also re-entry programs

I believe in, and we have, tough statutes and sentences for those who break our laws and endanger our citizens and communities. As a result, our crime rates are down. However, our recidivism rate is still too high. Reduction in recidivism means fewer victims, and less prison costs. America is a nation of second chances and those leaving prison should have the opportunity to change.

We are implementing sweeping new prisoner re-entry programs throughout our correctional system through the leadership of our first statewide prisoner re-entry coordinator and our new Director of the Department of Corrections. And I am pleased to say that since taking office we have implemented the fastest and fairest system for the restoration of civil rights in modern Virginia history.

Make Virginia gang-free; with tougher penalties & prevention

McDonnell's "Making Virginia a Gang-Free Zone" plan is highlighted by the following proposals:
• Appoint a new State "Anti-Gang Coordinator," at the deputy secretary level using existing resources
• Aid individual localities in replicating Richmond's successful Gang Reduction and Intervention Program (GRIP)
• Expand prevention programs like "Class Action" and "Badges for Baseball"
• Expand the role of the State Police in Anti-Gang Task Forces, gang investigations, and the development of gang intelligence
• Support Community Corrections efforts and require effective implementation of prisoner reentry plans
• Expand "gang-free school zones" into "gang-free zones"
• Toughen penalties for gang recruitment at all levels
• Broaden gang recruitment statute to specifically include new electronic mediums
• Amend the gang participation statute to include "any felony" committed on behalf of a gang, as well as certain misdemeanors