New York’s
Dangerous Proposal:

Felons Serving on Juries
is a Threat to Public Safety

A new bill in New York State could put public safety at risk by allowing convicted felons to serve on juries. The so-called “Jury of Our Peers Act” would grant individuals convicted of felonies the right to serve on juries once they have completed their sentence and probation. This bill, sponsored by Assembly Member Jeffrion Aubry and State Senator Brian Kavanagh, is not just misguided; it’s an invitation for disaster.

Felons are often repeat offenders, and the stats are alarming. According to the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, individuals released from prison are 10 times more likely to be re-arrested within three years compared to the general population. This fact alone shows that granting felons the power to determine the fate of their fellow citizens is reckless and dangerous. Felons have demonstrated poor judgment, and allowing them to sit on juries could jeopardize the integrity of the judicial process.

With over 70,000 felons incarcerated in New York alone, this bill could open the door to a flood of individuals with violent criminal histories participating in the legal system. Imagine a convicted burglar or drug dealer deciding the fate of an innocent person. It’s a terrifying prospect.

The bill is supported by advocates of criminal justice reform who argue that this would give felons a second chance at civic engagement. But what about the victims of their crimes? What about the citizens who depend on a fair and impartial jury system to ensure justice?

We should be focusing on rehabilitation, not empowerment of those who have already proven a lack of sound judgment. This bill puts New Yorkers in grave danger and undermines the value of our legal system.