Which Way, L.A.?
Juvenile Crime and Standards of Decency…
The US Supreme Court says life without parole for juveniles is “cruel and unusual punishment”--if they did not commit murder. Four such cases are here in California. Should children who kill have a chance for parole, too? Also, budget cuts and union negotiations at LA City Hall. And, will the US Senate get tough on Finance Reform? With voters angry at Wall Street and incumbent politicians… maybe so.
By Warren Olney • • 51m ListenThe US Supreme Court says life without parole for juveniles is “cruel and unusual punishment”--if they did not commit murder. Four such cases are here in California. Should children who kill have a chance for parole, too? Also, budget cuts and union negotiations at LA City Hall. And, will the US Senate get tough on Finance Reform? With voters angry at Wall Street and incumbent politicians… maybe so.
In this episode
4 storiesLA Budget Back and Forth
Mayor Villaraigosa and city budget cuts. Originally, the Mayor’s budget for next year called for eliminating 761 city jobs. But while the City Council was debating the matter yesterday, the Mayor asked for the vote to be delayed. As the LA Times put it this morning, the Council, “brushed aside the Mayor’s request.” David Zanhiser wrote that line.
Read the story6 minNo More Life Without Parole for Minors?
The US Supreme Court ruled yesterday that life without parole for juveniles is unconstitutional—if they did not kill anyone. Four inmates in California fit the bill. At the same time, there’s an effort to extend the chance for parole in this state - even to juveniles who did kill.
Read the story25 minHomeboy Industries Face Financial Turmoil
Father Gregory Boyle’s Homeboy Industries is an LA institution celebrated for 20 years for saving the lives of gang members. Its slogan is, “Nothing Stops a Bullet Like a Job.” But last week, the Jesuit priest had to lay off more than 300 employees—at a store, a bakery and the Homegirl Café.
Read the story5 minEndgame in Sight for Financial Reform
After the House passed finance reform last year, it was widely assumed that the Senate would produce a kinder and gentler measure. But…think again. Incumbents of both parties are facing tough challenges in this election year, and Goldman Sachs has been charged with consumer fraud.
Read the story30 min
