Mukasey Asks Congress To Block Relaxed Crack Sentencing Rules
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WASHINGTON — Attorney General Michael Mukasey wants Congress to act within weeks to prevent the release of thousands of violent criminals from federal prison under new crack cocaine sentencing rules. In testimony prepared for a House hearing today, Mr. Mukasey indicates a willingness to go along with new sentencing guidelines that reduce federal prison time for crack cocaine convicts — but only for first-time, non-violent offenders. New U.S. Sentencing Commission rules taking effect in less than a month would let nearly 20,000 federal inmates seek reductions in their crack cocaine sentences.
“We think it is imperative for Congress to pass legislation to address the Sentencing Commission’s decision,” Mr. Mukasey wrote. The Sentencing Commission’s guidelines kick in March 3.
