I appreciate the Gov. Janet Mills’ recent veto of the criminal records bill which would have closed access to almost all misdemeanor records.
If I am hiring someone to work in my retail store, I want to know if they have a shoplifting record, especially for multiple offenses. If I am hiring a nanny, I want to know whether the person watching my kids has a criminal record. Sure, many people have youthful indiscretions, but a blanket wipe-out of multiple misdemeanor charges does not serve the public. This is particularly the case when felony charges are often reduced misdemeanors in plea deals.
A more appropriate approach is to have an avenue for an individual assessment by a judge, with input from the victim and the prosecutor as to whether criminal records should be closed because they amount to a youthful indiscretion.
Blanket closure of criminal records serve the defendants but do not serve the needs of society or the victims.
Mary Ann Lynch
Cape Elizabeth