Criminal Justice & Legal System

A petition drive to repeal Michigan’s 1998 “truth-in-sentencing” law expects to begin signature gathering early next year. If the law is repealed, prisoners could earn “good time” credits that could shorten their minimum sentences.

In a plea agreement with federal prosecutors, former U of M violin professor Stephen Shipps pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of transporting a minor across state lines with intent to engage in sexual activity. Also on Tuesday, former Detroit police officer Alonzo Jones pleaded guilty to taking more than $3,000 in bribes, in yet another case of corruption involving the city’s towing industry.

The athletes sued, claiming the university’s vaccine mandate violated their religious rights. Last month, a federal appeals court sided with the athletes.

The lawsuit seeks financial compensation and ongoing health support for residents exposed to lead in the drinking water.

A “remarkable achievement,” that’s how U.S. District Court Judge Judith Levy describes the roughly $626 million settlement in her 178 page opinion.

During a press conference Tuesday, DPD Chief James White promised changes, following two separate investigations into corruption and fraud in the department.

Under the settlement, the state of Michigan has agreed to pay Liane Shekter Smith $300,000 and her 2016 departure from her job will now be classified as a voluntary resignation instead of a firing.

Frances Walter was hired as the interim director of the new unit in April. The resolution makes her position permanent.

Under the agreement announced this week, the Michigan Department of Corrections will make changes to all those policies.

There are now statewide standards to determine when a criminal defendant is entitled to a publicly funded lawyer. It’s part of a years-long effort to overhaul the system.