Pubdate: Sun, 19 Aug 2012
Source: Oklahoman, The (OK)
Copyright: 2012 The Oklahoma Publishing Co.
Contact: http://www.newsok.com/voices/guidelines
Website: http://newsok.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/318
Author: Mary Ann O'Kane

EARLY PARDON FOR UNJUSTLY HARSH SENTENCE

Regarding "DA accuses board of expediting release of ineligible 
inmates" (News, Aug. 9): The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board was 
clearly trying to right a wrong when it pardoned Patricia 
Spottedcrow, who was given an unjustly harsh sentence, especially for 
a first-time offender. She was incarcerated for selling $31 worth of 
marijuana and got a 12-year sentence. Yes, her action was illegal, 
but she already paid the price in time served. Spottedcrow was sent 
to prison instead of given the chance to participate in a women's 
program for nonviolent offenders. Her children were denied her 
presence as she was sentenced to a prison at a distance.

I commend Richard Dugger and other parole board members for reviewing 
her sentence and recommending early parole. I commend Gov. Mary 
Fallin for recognizing this error of injustice and following the 
recommendation of the board.

It's right and just to speak out and be advocates for those whose 
cases should be reviewed and action taken on their behalf. We all 
need to stand up and be counted and assist others who aren't a danger 
to society and deserve consideration of early parole.

Mary Ann O'Kane

Oklahoma City
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