Newsom’s death-row commutations spark DA revolt as prosecutors warn of legal fight
At least a dozen California district attorneys are publicly condemning Gov. Gavin Newsom’s plan to commute all 548 death sentences in the state, arguing the sweeping move overrides juries, disregards...
By Fox News · Fox News
At least a dozen California district attorneys are publicly condemning Gov. Gavin Newsom’s plan to commute all 548 death sentences in the state, arguing the sweeping move overrides juries, disregards victims’ families and defies the will of state voters. Newsom announced the plan Thursday, saying state-sanctioned killing is incompatible with California’s values. The move would convert the sentences to life without parole, though 382 cases still require approval from at least four California Supreme Court justices, according to the Associated Press. In response, prosecuting attorneys across California have raised concerns about victims’ rights, the governor’s constitutional authority and the role of the California Supreme Court in reviewing hundreds of the commutations. "Justice requires case-by-case consideration, not one-size-fits-all decisions," Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho said in response to Newsom's action. THREE STATES CARRY OUT EXECUTIONS ON SAME DAY AMID RENEWED DEATH PENALTY DEBATE Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer described the move as "mercy for the wolves" that inflicts "the ultimate act of cruelty on the sheep." Spitzer noted that regulations implemented by California’s Board of Parole Hearings on Oct. 1 allow thousands of prisoners serving life without parole to become eligible for parole, arguing that Newsom's latest death row commutations could put these inmates "one step closer" to release. Newsom’s office says, however, that the affected prisoners will remain in prison and are not eligible for release. "The Governor is attempting to appear courageous with this decision. He is not courageous. His commutations are solely based upon power and political aspirations," added San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson, who accused Newsom of caring more about politics than people. "Courage would require speaking with crime victims and the surviving family members…