REPORT: Violent crimes stacking because judges are releasing criminal defendants back into society


Data compiled by the Office of the Attorney General of Guam is showing a clearer picture of violent crime happening because Superior Court of Guam judges continue releasing defendants back into the community as they await trial. Attorney General Douglas Moylan and his team of prosecutors have spent the past four months advocating for judges to keep violent offenders in jail, or to at least require a cash bond and ankle monitor if they have to be released.

As those requests fall on the seemingly-deaf ears of judges, they are releasing criminal defendants, and the crimes and crime victims are stacking up. According to the latest data, another 34 criminal defendants who were released by judges from jail pending trial ended up committing other crimes while on release.

The tally of violations, according to the judge who released the criminal defendant follows:

Judge Benjamin Sison:    18 Alleged Violations Noted in Report

Judge Jonathan Quan:   10 Alleged Violations Noted in Report

Judge Alberto Tolentino:   1 Alleged Violation Noted in Report

Judge Vernon Perez:   2 Alleged Violations Noted in Report

Judge Maria Cenzon:   1 Alleged Violation Noted in Report

Judge Alberto Lamorena III:   2 Alleged Violations Noted in Report

“Of the 34 persons in the attached report, 11 of them were charged with another crime (drug possession, firearms violations, assaulting peace officer, theft, burglary, forgery, child abuse, family violence), arguably creating more crime victims,” the report by the OAG states. “The court’s probation officers file violations against defendants, and more may be forthcoming.”

The OAG report makes the point that though defendants enjoy the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty at trial (or if they plea guilt), the charges made against them are based on probable cause; evidence and believable testimony that exists that point guilty their way.

“The AG’s Office fights to keep defendants locked up or a ‘realistic bail’ imposed,” the latest report states. “Without tough release conditions, defendants create more crime victims in our Villages. We oppose release on performance bonds since they require no money, don’t get paid, and cost too much attorney time to pursue. The problem of catch and release resulting in more crime and crime victims continues. Defendants must respect the Judges and the law, like the rest of us are expected to do. A pro-incarceration policy protects us & works. It sets the proper tone.”

The tracking report follows in the images:

 


1 Comments

  • Alan San Nicolas

      05/03/2023 at 6:02 AM

    Gof adahi I hafa un me-menta (sa-sagan) Muchumas I direcho I petsona. Ma pongle (aresta) put sino ma sotta, un klase ha. Yanggen ti malago I petsona po korihi gue pues seimpre guaha I ti kombieni. Esta despues Afañelos

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