In Michigan, the outcome of a criminal case can hinge not just on the facts presented but also on the county where it’s tried.
Whether it’s about politics or revenue, something is very wrong with the geographic disparities in sentencing, raising concerns about fairness and equality in the justice system.
Geographic Disparities in Sentencing
A study by Safe & Just Michigan revealed that two individuals convicted of the same offense under similar circumstances could receive vastly different sentences depending on the county.
For instance, in 2012, individuals in Wayne County were eight times more likely to receive probation than those in Ingham County for comparable offenses.
What’s in Ingham County? Funny you should ask; it’s our State’s Capitol, Lansing.
Further analysis showed that among Michigan’s 57 circuit courts, 11 were more likely than average to sentence individuals to prison, 16 were less likely, and 30 didn’t differ significantly from the average.
The Role of Race and Socioeconomic Status
Disparities aren’t just limited to geography.
In Washtenaw County, people of color were charged with crimes carrying maximum sentences 2.15 months longer than white defendants in similar circumstances. They also faced more charges per case on average.
Nationally, Black men receive sentences approximately 13.4% longer than white men for similar offenses.
Why it Matters
The concepts of due process and the rule of law means that everyone is treated equally.
These disparities highlight the need for a standardized sentencing commission in Michigan to ensure consistency and fairness across counties. Such a commission could address the current inconsistencies and work towards a more equitable justice system.
Justice should be blind to geography and race. Ensuring consistent sentencing across Michigan is crucial for upholding the principles of fairness and equality in the justice system.
