(NON) Prosecution rates in DC-How do we address this?

[Anonymous]

^ What the title says. We have a complex judicial system in DC. Why aren't cases (for people actually are arrested, already a BIG step in this town) being referred for prosecution? Is this a crime lab certification issue (evidence won't stand). Something else? It is so thorny that with a masters degree I can't understand it - but maybe someone can explain. My gut feeling is that due to the complexity everyone who has a part in the process can point fingers at someone else/something else and dodge responsibility. I'd like to understand what is happening, and then understand exactly how to hold the people meant to be fulfilling key roles in this accountable.

[Anonymous]

It's addressed by the voters of the District voting for more conservative candidates. Since there's 0 appetite for that, I suggest moving.

https://wtop.com/dc/2023/11/12-year-old-arrested-in-suspected-carjacking-that-led-to-13-year-olds-shooting-death-by-off-duty-officer/

[Anonymous]

Your assessment seems right to me, OP. I dont know why the Post doesnt come dow harder on Graves? We need to get him out. Im a 20 year resident of DC and live downtown. The crime surge has already done so much damage.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:^ What the title says. We have a complex judicial system in DC. Why aren't cases (for people actually are arrested, already a BIG step in this town) being referred for prosecution? Is this a crime lab certification issue (evidence won't stand). Something else? It is so thorny that with a masters degree I can't understand it - but maybe someone can explain. My gut feeling is that due to the complexity everyone who has a part in the process can point fingers at someone else/something else and dodge responsibility. I'd like to understand what is happening, and then understand exactly how to hold the people meant to be fulfilling key roles in this accountable.

This is a good take on it. It's part of why the crime bill, while much decried for mostly poor reasons, was important - it streamlined the criminal code which would enable (ideally) more prosecutions to actually take place in a more efficient judicial/sentencing process. Most criminals don't go to trial but instead cop plea deals and the updated crime bill would have made that process easier and quicker (elimination of mandatory minimums). Alas...