No on Measure 57 and Yes on Measure 61.

I feel that the Oregon Legislature is taking too easy or soft an approach on crime in Oregon. Historically, our Legislature is liberal, wimpy at best.

Oregon and especially rural Oregon needs to take an extremely harsh stance on criminal behavior and activity that affects our livelihood, way of life, persons and property that we own.

Rural Oregonians have worked too hard for what we have only to have it stolen out from under us. Measure 61 will give minimum prison sentences for first-time offenders convicted of certain thefts which include identity theft, forgery, drug and burglary crimes. With the very people who are stealing from you, we’ll know that they won’t soon be back out reoffending.

Measure 57 is too lenient and the criminals know that IF they get caught, they’ll only do a short stint in the local jail.

Burglary, theft and ID theft are out of control, and there are no consequences for those who are caught, tried and convicted. Judges’ hands are tied with the current Matrix system used to sentence offenders and repeat offenders.

Law enforcement and incarcerating people is expensive. However, if you have ever been a victim of one of these crimes, it is a terrible feeling that violates everything that we stand for.

Police invest hard work and taxpayer dollars into investigations. When they are caught and convicted, there are no consequences for the actions of those breaking the laws. We have to start somewhere and stop the revolving door syndrome of our local jails. Maybe a stiffer prison sentence, even for first-time offenders, will be the winning ticket. At least the criminals won’t be back out on the street in 30, 60, or 90 days, ripping someone else off.

I personally have endorsed Kevin Mannix and Measure 61. Help us help you and vote yes on Measure 61.