While AZCOPS recognizes the fiscal realities facing Arizonas, the slash and burn tactics that have gotten us to this point can't comtinue. With that in mind, according to the recent poll, one place Arizona should not be making cuts in to those who work the TOUGHEST BEAT.
Many people including some Republicans at the Capitol have said that prisons need to cut before education and social services for law abiding taxpayers. But when asked if they support the early release of prisoners or the elimination of parole Supervision, the answer is a resounding NO!
Arizona support the elimination of administrative waste, However 70 percent of those recently polled oppose cutting the pay and benefits of correctional officers, and nearly 80 percent oppose the layoff of our members who protect their public safety.
Additionally, 80 percent oppose the elimination of parole supervision-regardless of the type of crimes committed. The fact is that less than 20 percent of convicted felons are sentenced to state prison. Therefore, there are few individuals who make it to prison who are what some refer to as "NON-VIOLENT," "NON-SERIOUS" OFFENDERS. In fact, the offenders who actually get sent to prison are HARD-CORE criminals who have shown they are a threat to society. If hardened criminals are released early-without supervision or support-crime will increase and lives will be lost.
Arizonians are also disgusted with the high cost on inmate health care. Arizona currently spends about $14,000 or more a year providing medical care for each prison inmate. That's nearly twice the national average. In the view of nearly 90 percent of those polled, Arizona should cap medical expenses for prisoners. This alone would save the state of Arizona Millions and up to $1 Billion.
And, the State could save Billions and bringing the short fall if Billions by postponing the Constructions of future prisons and eliminating overtime. Also, nearly million could be saved by filling correctional officer vacancies.
If we are going to return Arizona to a strong and solvent state, the message is clear Governor: CUT THE FAT NOT THE MUSCLE. AZCOPS will continue to let our elected leaders know what our citizens want. Protecting the public safety in the number one purpose of government. Our prisons and our Correctional Officers are vital to that mission and we will not let anyone forget the hard work our correctional officers and parole officers do on a daily basis. WE PUT OUR LIVES ON THE LINE DAY IN AND DAY OUT. Governor and senate members support your Correctional Officers.