Burning Atlanta

I'm sure I've posted something about this before. I think Florida was seriously looking into it if they haven't already started.

I'm not sure of this, so just consider it me talking out of my ass, but I've gotten the impression illegals often have reduced sentences or get bounced out early. I've posted about illegals not even being federally charged for hauling up to 500 pounds of pot across some areas of our border. The federal authorities say they simply don't have the resources. Also, considering overcrowded jails, I'd bet that plays into how some judges sentence and/or parole boards react.

This, at least, suggests that illegals serve half of their sentences. But if they're facing reduced sentences to begin with then it gets silly. There has to be a sufficient penalty for whatever crime in the hope that they may not make the same mistake or their buddy goes, "Hey, I don't want that to happen to me."

Sadly, as we all know, it always gets down to the money. And at a time when state government is looking for ways to save bucks this policy will become a given.

Boot them.

Officials in the two states say they have saved millions by turning over for early deportation some non-violent immigrant criminals who have served at least half of their sentences.

Eligible inmates include both legal immigrants who committed certain crimes and illegal immigrants.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials say the federal government also saves money when immigrant inmates get sent home early, and hopes to expand the program in the next few months.

"This program does not apply to your rapists, your murderers, your serious criminals," says Julie Myers, homeland security assistant secretary for ICE.

Since December 2005, 1,300 Arizona inmates have been turned over to ICE for deportation under the policy, says Nolberto Machiche, spokesman for the state Department of Corrections. The state has saved more than $17 million as a result because it no longer has to house the criminals, he says.

New York's program began in 1995, says Erik Kriss, spokesman for New York State Department of Correctional Services. Through December, nearly 2,000 inmates had been deported under the program for a savings of $141 million.