A judge would still have the discretion to give a first-timer jail, probation or a number of other alternatives. Judges have no discretion over this part. They must put the repeat offender behind bars for the kicker sentences, whatever they choose to do on the 14-month provision. United's plan to drastically change the justice system in Oregon. Since then, corrections spending has doubled.
Proponents rightly point out that Oregon has one of the highest property-crime rates in the country.
Last year, about 12,000 cars were reported stolen in Oregon and 20,000 homes burgled. If one of them was yours, we wouldn't blame you for wanting to throttle the guy. Locking him up for a year or so probably seems like a no-brainer. But until recently this wasn't standard protocol. Last year, however, the Legislature finally went after repeat property offenders.