JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri — A Missouri ballot measure that would allow allegations of past actions to be used against people facing child sexual abuse charges could lead to more wrongful convictions of the falsely accused, a prominent defense attorney said Wednesday. The proposed constitutional amendment is backed by prosecutors, sheriffs and police chiefs’ groups.
It would allow past criminal acts — even alleged crimes that didn’t result in convictions — to be used to corroborate victim testimony or demonstrate a defendant’s propensity to commit such crimes when people face sex-related charges involving victims younger than 18. Full Article
Also see: Law Enforcement Officials Back Ballot Measure To Allow More Evidence In Some Sex Crime Cases
I believe there was a study showing people are getting more stupid. I remember reading it in Smithsonian magazine. Maybe we are getting less civilized. Any, this ballot measure proves it. Either someone committed a crime or he didn’t based on direct evidence. I don’t care if he is Charles Manson, you can’t punish someone for a crime they didn’t do, no matter how bad a person they were and are and how much you feel the need to make an example of someone. It’s double jeopardy. Our tradition of innocent until proven guilty is what makes us civilized if it applies to everyone Any barbarian can meet out punishment simply to create closure for a victim.
This measure is backed by all the agencies who will profit from more convictions! After the constitution is gutted using sex offenses as an excuse who will become the targets?