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White House Wire on Fighting Crime, 5/18/89
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Document No.
036867 ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/17/89
5/18/89 4:00 PM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
WHITE HOUSE WIRE ON FIGHTING CRIME
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM, Thursday, May 18, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
( (Grant)
NAY
May 15, 1989
10 a.m.
WHITE HOUSE WIRE
ON FIGHTING CRIME
PRESIDENT UNVEILS WIDE-RANGING PACKAGE TO FIGHT VIOLENT CRIME
On May 15, 1989, President Bush outlined a comprehensive
program to combat violent crime, designed to strengthen the
nation's criminal justice system and the Federal, state, and
local law enforcement partnership. The President is proposing a
common-sense approach to crime with proposals to limit access to
weapons by criminals, to reform the criminal justice system, to
enhance enforcement and prosecution, and to expand prison
capacity to ensure both the certainty and severity of punishment.
a cham is as
Principles guiding the President's proposals: Four
strong as to
weakest Imic.
principles underlie the goals of our criminal justice system and Therofore,
the means for accomplishing them:
O
We must protect citizens and their property, because
Americans deserve to live in a society in which they
are safe and feel secure.
Those who commit violent crimes should, and must, be
held accountable for their actions.
Our criminal justice system must have as its objective
the swift and certain apprehension, prosecution and
incarceration of those who break the law.
Success in accomplishing these goals requires a
sustained, cooperative effort by Federal, State and
local law enforcement authorities.
Elements of The comp
ol Act of 1989:
I. Strengthening Current
MK-
is calling on
Congress to double the ma
years to ten years in Fede
Fach
ties -- from five
e use of semi-
automatic weapons in viole
this
lonies. In
addition, the Attorney Gen
ed to advise
America
timi
Federal prosecutors to end
violent Federal
firearms offenses. Preside
ngress to enact
the steps necessary to impl
ty for the most
these
serious Federal crimes, and urged state Governors to match this
Federal initiative new mandatory sentencing, tougher rules on
plea bargaining, and implementing the death penalty -- in the
States.
The President also announced that the Administration will
make permanent the temporary suspension on the import of certain any
which fail b meet the criteria specifiedin the 6m control act of
semi-automatic weapons, and The his President will support for legislation
1968.
propase
prohibiting the importation, manufacture, sale or transfer of gun
magazines of more than 15 rounds. And, to keep deadly weapons
out of deadly hands, the President called on Congress to close
loopholes like the one that allowed Patrick Edward Purdy to buy
that deadly AKS-47 in Stockton, California.
II. Augmenting Enforcement. The President has directed the
Attorney General and the Treasury Secretary, working together
authorities
with state and local enforcement, to launch a comprehensive,
coordinated offensive against America's most violent criminals.
President Bush requested funding for hiring 825 new Federal
agents and staff -- 375 at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms; 300 at the FBI; and 150 Deputy U.S. Marshalls.
This
offensive, including State and local enforcement authorities,
will target violent criminals and repeat offenders.
III. Enhancing Prosecution. The President proposed to increase
funds for the U.S. Attorneys Offices to support 1,600 new
prosecutors and staff, and increase funds for the Justice
positions
Department Criminal Division to support 168 new attorneys, to
handle drug cases, weapons offenses and other priority matters.
IV. Expanding Prison Capacity. The President proposed an
addtional $1 billion for Federal prison construction, bringing
the total FY 1990 budget to over $1.5 billion. This will
increase Federal prison capacity by nearly 80 percent, adding
over 24,000 new prison beds.
PRESIDENT BUSH LAUNCHES NEW STRATEGY TO "TAKE BACK THE STREETS"
On May 15, the President participated in the National Peace
Officers' Memorial Day Service, declaring to law enforcement
officers assembled on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, "We're going
to take back the streets -- by taking criminals off the streets." "
He urged a "return to common sense," and continued, "A common
sense approach to crime means that if we are going to affect
people's behavior, we must have a criminal justice system in
which there is an expectation that: If you commit a crime, you
will be caught; and if caught, you will be prosecuted; and if
convicted, you will do time. " After unveiling his new offensive
to fight what he called the "new class of criminals" on our
streets, the President concluded, "Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in front of the Capitol and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war. Never was the toll more visible
than in the faces of the brave men and women -- the families --
gathered here today. And when I first stood here as President
...
I made a promise: 'This scourge will stop.' And that's a
promise we intend to keep."
LAW ENFORCEMENT LEADERS BACK KEY ELEMENTS OF CRIME PACKAGE
Across the country, law enforcement officials are backing
the President's proposals to fight crime:
"He sent a message to the criminal element that if you
commit a crime you're going to get caught, that if you get caught
you're going to get prosecuted, and if you get prosecuted and
convicted you're going to jail -- and that requires a broad,
comprehensive program of the type he proposed today." -- Attorney
DICK
General Richard Thornburgh.
"We feel [the President's package] is a get-tough policy,
and one that is urgently required if we are to make any headway
in fighting crime. We are encouraged by the President's
commitment to the crime issue." -- John Bellizzi, Executive
Director, International Narcotics Enforcement Officers
Association.
"George Bush has never wavered in his commitment against
crime and in his support for victims of crime. This package is
consistent -- and in fact is going forward -- with what he has
been doing.' -- Frank Carrington, Executive Director, Victims'
Assistance Legal Organization.
"The president took the first step
...
I thought the step he
took was a giant step. I applaud the President's law enforcement
package. [In Washington,] we have the strongest handgun law in
the country and outside of a national handgun ban, I don't
think the President could have done anything more than he did
yesterday." -- Washington, D.C. Police Chief Maurice Turner
"I am very pleased with the idea that there are going to be
added federal prosecutors, that they're adding new employees to
the ATF and US Marshalls, and the fact that there is $1 billion
for new prison construction." -- Mr. Robert Scully, National
President, National Association of Police Organizations
"We are especially heartened by the additional resources
being recommended for federal prosecutors and federal prisons
...
We also strongly endorse the President's position that calls for
reform of our habeas corpus procedures and the provision which
would provide a good faith exception to the Exclusionary Rule."
-- Mr. Jack Yelverton, Executive Director, National District
Attorneys Association.
# # #
036867 ss
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/17/89
5/18/89 4:00 PM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
WHITE HOUSE WIRE ON FIGHTING CRIME
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM, Thursday, May 18, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See changes
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
10:30
( (Grant)
MAY
May 15, 1989/
10 a.m.
12:24
WHITE HOUSE WIRE
ON FIGHTING CRIME
PRESIDENT UNVEILS WIDE-RANGING PACKAGE TO FIGHT VIOLENT CRIME
On May 15, 1989, President Bush outlined a comprehensive
program to combat violent crime, designed to strengthen the
nation's criminal justice system and the Federal, state, and
local law enforcement partnership. The President is proposing a
common-sense approach to crime with proposals to limit access to
weapons by criminals, to reform the criminal justice system, to
enhance enforcement and prosecution, and to expand prison
capacity to ensure both the certainty and severity of punishment.
Principles guiding the President's proposals: Four
principles underlie the goals of our criminal justice system and
the means for accomplishing them:
We must protect citizens and their property, because
Americans deserve to live in a society in which they
are safe and feel secure.
Those who commit violent crimes should, and must, be
held accountable for their actions.
Our criminal justice system must have as its objective
the swift and certain apprehension, prosecution and
incarceration of those who break the law.
Success in accomplishing these goals requires a
sustained, cooperative effort by Federal, State and
local law enforcement authorities.
Elements of The Comprehesive Crime Control Act of 1989:
I. Strengthening Current Laws. The President is calling on
Congress to double the mandatory minimum penalties -- from five
years to ten years in Federal prison -- for the use of semi-
automatic weapons in violent crimes or drug felonies. In
addition, the Attorney General has been directed to advise
Federal prosecutors to end plea bargaining for violent Federal
firearms offenses. President Bush called on Congress to enact
the steps necessary to implement the death penalty for the most
serious Federal crimes, and urged state Governors to match this
Federal initiative -- new mandatory sentencing, tougher rules on
plea bargaining, and implementing the death penalty -- in the
States.
The President also announced that the Administration will
make permanent the temporary suspension on the import of certain
semi-automatic weapons, and his support for legislation
prohibiting the importation, manufacture, sale or transfer of gun
magazines of more than 15 rounds. And, to keep deadly weapons
out of deadly hands, the President called on Congress to close
loopholes like the one that allowed Patrick Edward Purdy to buy
that deadly AKS-47 in Stockton, California.
Augmenting Enforcement. The President has directed the
Attorney General and the Treasury Secretary, working together
with state and local enforcement, to launch a comprehensive,
MK-
Call on OMB's Policy change
A
nt criminals.
w Federal
Tobacco and
halls. This
uthorities,
Presiuent proposed to increase
funds for the U.S. Attorneys Offices to support 1,600 new
prosecutors and staff, and increase funds for the Justice
Department Criminal Division to support 168 new attorneys, to
handle drug cases, weapons offenses and other priority matters.
Expanding Prison Capacity. The President proposed an
Hale
addtional $1 billion for Federal prison construction, bringing
x3120
the total FY 1990 budget to over $1.5 billion. This will add 24,000
New prison beds to the Qurrently 31,000 beds, an increase of nearly 80%.
increase Federal prison capacity by nearly 80 percent, adding
Federal
over 24 000 new prison beds.
PRESIDENT BUSH LAUNCHES NEW STRATEGY TO "TAKE BACK THE STREETS"
On May 15, the President participated in the National Peace
Officers' Memorial Day Service, declaring to law enforcement
officers assembled on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, "We're going
to take back the streets -- by taking criminals off the streets." "
He urged a "return to common sense," and continued, "A common
sense approach to crime means that if we are going to affect
people's behavior, we must have a criminal justice system in
which there is an expectation that: If you commit a crime, you
will be caught; and if caught, you will be prosecuted; and if
convicted, you will do time. " After unveiling his new offensive
to fight what he called the "new class of criminals" on our
streets, the President concluded, "Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in front of the Capitol and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war. Never was the toll more visible
than in the faces of the brave men and women -- the families --
gathered here today. And when I first stood here as President
I made a promise: 'This scourge will stop. And that's a
promise we intend to keep. "
LAW ENFORCEMENT LEADERS BACK KEY ELEMENTS OF CRIME PACKAGE
Across the country, law enforcement officials are backing
the President's proposals to fight crime:
"He sent a message to the criminal element that if you
commit a crime you're going to get caught, that if you get caught
you're going to get prosecuted, and if you get prosecuted and
convicted you're going to jail -- and that requires a broad,
comprehensive program of the type he proposed today. " -- Attorney
General Richard Thornburgh.
"We feel [the President's package] is a get-tough policy,
and one that is urgently required if we are to make any headway
in fighting crime. We are encouraged by the President's
commitment to the crime issue." -- John Bellizzi, Executive
Director, International Narcotics Enforcement Officers
Association.
"George Bush has never wavered in his commitment against
crime and in his support for victims of crime. This package is
consistent -- and in fact is going forward -- with what he has
been doing." -- Frank Carrington, Executive Director, Victims'
Assistance Legal Organization.
"The president took the first step ... I thought the step he
took was a giant step. I applaud the President's law enforcement
package. [In Washington, ] we have the strongest handgun law in
the country
...
and outside of a national handgun ban, I don't
think the President could have done anything more than he did
yesterday." -- Washington, D.C. Police Chief Maurice Turner
"I am very pleased with the idea that there are going to be
added federal prosecutors that they're adding new employees to
the ATF and US Marshalls, and the fact that there is $1 billion
for new prison construction." -- Mr. Robert Scully, National
President, National Association of Police Organizations
"We are especially heartened by the additional resources
being recommended for federal prosecutors and federal prisons
...
We also strongly endorse the President's position that calls for
reform of our habeas corpus procedures and the provision which
would provide a good faith exception to the Exclusionary Rule."
-- Mr. Jack Yelverton, Executive Director, National District
Attorneys Association.
###
036867 ss
Document No.
3749
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/17/89
5/18/89 4:00 PM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
WHITE HOUSE WIRE ON FIGHTING CRIME
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM, Thursday, May 18, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
May 18, 1989
TO: Chriss Winston
The NSC staff concurs in the attached statement
Philip Hughes
James W, Cicconi
Executive Secretary Assistant to the President
CC: Jim Cicconi
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
89 MAY 17 P / : 58
i
( (Grant) HAY
May 15, 1989>
10 a.m.
WHITE HOUSE WIRE
ON FIGHTING CRIME
PRESIDENT UNVEILS WIDE-RANGING PACKAGE TO FIGHT VIOLENT CRIME
On May 15, 1989, President Bush outlined a comprehensive
program to combat violent crime, designed to strengthen the
nation's criminal justice system and the Federal, state, and
local law enforcement partnership. The President is proposing a
common-sense approach to crime with proposals to limit access to
weapons by criminals, to reform the criminal justice system, to
enhance enforcement and prosecution, and to expand prison
capacity to ensure both the certainty and severity of punishment.
Principles guiding the President's proposals: Four
principles underlie the goals of our criminal justice system and
the means for accomplishing them:
We must protect citizens and their property, because
Americans deserve to live in a society in which they
are safe and feel secure.
Those who commit violent crimes should, and must, be
held accountable for their actions.
Our criminal justice system must have as its objective
the swift and certain apprehension, prosecution and
incarceration of those who break the law.
Success in accomplishing these goals requires a
sustained, cooperative effort by Federal, State and
local law enforcement authorities.
Elements of The Comprehesive Crime Control Act of 1989:
I. Strengthening Current Laws. The President is calling on
Congress to double the mandatory minimum penalties -- from five
years to ten years in Federal prison -- for the use of semi-
automatic weapons in violent crimes or drug felonies. In
addition, the Attorney General has been directed to advise
Federal prosecutors to end plea bargaining for violent Federal
firearms offenses. President Bush called on Congress to enact
the steps necessary to implement the death penalty for the most
serious Federal crimes, and urged state Governors to match this
Federal initiative -- new mandatory sentencing, tougher rules on
plea bargaining, and implementing the death penalty -- in the
States.
The President also announced that the Administration will
make permanent the temporary suspension on the import of certain
semi-automatic weapons, and his support for legislation
prohibiting the importation, manufacture, sale or transfer of gun
magazines of more than 15 rounds. And, to keep deadly weapons
out of deadly hands, the President called on Congress to close
loopholes like the one that allowed Patrick Edward Purdy to buy
that deadly AKS-47 in Stockton, California.
Augmenting Enforcement. The President has directed the
Attorney General and the Treasury Secretary, working together
with state and local enforcement, to launch a comprehensive,
coordinated offensive against America's most violent criminals.
President Bush requested funding for hiring 825 new Federal
agents and staff -- 375 at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms; 300 at the FBI; and 150 Deputy U.S. Marshalls. This
offensive, including State and local enforcement authorities,
will target violent criminals and repeat offenders.
Enhancing Prosecution. The President proposed to increase
funds for the U.S. Attorneys Offices to support 1,600 new
prosecutors and staff, and increase funds for the Justice
Department Criminal Division to support 168 new attorneys, to
handle drug cases, weapons offenses and other priority matters.
Expanding Prison Capacity. The President proposed an
addtional $1 billion for Federal prison construction, bringing
the total FY 1990 budget to over $1.5 billion. This will
increase Federal prison capacity by nearly 80 percent, adding
over 24,000 new prison beds.
PRESIDENT BUSH LAUNCHES NEW STRATEGY TO "TAKE BACK THE STREETS"
On May 15, the President participated in the National Peace
Officers' Memorial Day Service, declaring to law enforcement
officers assembled on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, "We're going
to take back the streets -- by taking criminals off the streets."
He urged a "return to common sense," and continued, "A common
sense approach to crime means that if we are going to affect
people's behavior, we must have a criminal justice system in
which there is an expectation that: If you commit a crime, you
will be caught; and if caught, you will be prosecuted; and if
convicted, you will do time.' After unveiling his new offensive
to fight what he called the "new class of criminals" on our
streets, the President concluded, "Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in front of the Capitol and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war. Never was the toll more visible
than in the faces of the brave men and women -- the families --
gathered here today. And when I first stood here as President
I made a promise: 'This scourge will stop.' And that's a
promise we intend to keep."
LAW ENFORCEMENT LEADERS BACK KEY ELEMENTS OF CRIME PACKAGE
Across the country, law enforcement officials are backing
the President's proposals to fight crime:
"He sent a message to the criminal element that if you
commit a crime you're going to get caught, that if you get caught
you're going to get prosecuted, and if you get prosecuted and
convicted you're going to jail -- and that requires a broad,
comprehensive program of the type he proposed today." -- Attorney
General Richard Thornburgh.
"We feel [the President's package] is a get-tough policy,
and one that is urgently required if we are to make any headway
in fighting crime. We are encouraged by the President's
commitment to the crime issue." -- John Bellizzi, Executive
Director, International Narcotics Enforcement Officers
Association.
"George Bush has never wavered in his commitment against
crime and in his support for victims of crime. This package is
consistent -- and in fact is going forward -- with what he has
been doing." -- Frank Carrington, Executive Director, Victims'
Assistance Legal Organization.
"The president took the first step
I thought the step he
took was a giant step. I applaud the President's law enforcement
package. [In Washington, ] we have the strongest handgun law in
the country
and outside of a national handgun ban, I don't
think the President could have done anything more than he did
yesterday. -- Washington, D.C. Police Chief Maurice Turner
"I am very pleased with the idea that there are going to be
added federal prosecutors, that they're adding new employees to
the ATF and US Marshalls, and the fact that there is $1 billion
for new prison construction." -- Mr. Robert Scully, National
President, National Association of Police Organizations
"We are especially heartened by the additional resources
being recommended for federal prosecutors and federal prisons
We also strongly endorse the President's position that calls for
reform of our habeas corpus procedures and the provision which
would provide a good faith exception to the Exclusionary Rule. "
-- Mr. Jack Yelverton, Executive Director, National District
Attorneys Association.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 18, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
BILL ROPER BiuRg
SUBJECT:
White House Wire on Fighting Crime
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this
document. We have the following suggestions:
1.
On page 2, the paragraph on "Strengthening Current
Laws, " is numbered. The subsequent paragraphs
should be as well, or otherwise made consistent.
2. On page 2, the second paragraph should read
"The President also announced that the Administration
will make permanent the temporary suspension on the
import of any semi-automatic weapons that fail to
meet the criteria specified in the Gun Control Act
of 1968. The President will propose legislation
prohibiting the importation
"
3. On page 5, the last sentence of the Police Chief
Maurice Turner quote should be dropped.
4. On page 5, in the Robert Scully quote, the correct
figure is 1.5 billion dollars for new prison
construction.
I would be happy to discuss this with you.
CC: James W. Cicconi
Document No.
036867 ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/17/89
5/18/89 4:00 PM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
WHITE HOUSE WIRE ON FIGHTING CRIME
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM, Thursday, May 18, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
( (Grant) 1989 HAY
May 15, 1989>
10 a.m.
12:24
WHITE HOUSE WIRE
ON FIGHTING CRIME
PRESIDENT UNVEILS WIDE-RANGING PACKAGE TO FIGHT VIOLENT CRIME
On May 15, 1989, President Bush outlined a comprehensive
program to combat violent crime, designed to strengthen the
nation's criminal justice system and the Federal, state, and
local law enforcement partnership. The President is proposing a
common-sense approach to crime with proposals to limit access to
weapons by criminals, to reform the criminal justice system, to
enhance enforcement and prosecution, and to expand prison
capacity to ensure both the certainty and severity of punishment.
Principles guiding the President's proposals: Four
principles underlie the goals of our criminal justice system and
the means for accomplishing them:
We must protect citizens and their property, because
Americans deserve to live in a society in which they
are safe and feel secure.
Those who commit violent crimes should, and must, be
held accountable for their actions.
Our criminal justice system must have as its objective
the swift and certain apprehension, prosecution and
incarceration of those who break the law.
Success in accomplishing these goals requires a
sustained, cooperative effort by Federal, State and
local law enforcement authorities.
Elements of The Comprehesive Crime Control Act of 1989:
I. Strengthening Current Laws. The President is calling on
Congress to double the mandatory minimum penalties -- from five
years to ten years in Federal prison -- for the use of semi-
automatic weapons in violent crimes or drug felonies. In
addition, the Attorney General has been directed to advise
Federal prosecutors to end plea bargaining for violent Federal
firearms offenses. President Bush called on Congress to enact
the steps necessary to implement the death penalty for the most
serious Federal crimes, and urged state Governors to match this
Federal initiative -- new mandatory sentencing, tougher rules on
plea bargaining, and implementing the death penalty -- in the
States.
The President also announced that the Administration will
make permanent the temporary suspension on the import of certain
semi-automatic weapons, and his support for legislation
prohibiting the importation, manufacture, sale or transfer of gun
magazines of more than 15 rounds. And, to keep deadly weapons
out of deadly hands, the President called on Congress to close
loopholes like the one that allowed Patrick Edward Purdy to buy
that deadly AKS-47 in Stockton, California.
Augmenting Enforcement. The President has directed the
Attorney General and the Treasury Secretary, working together
with state and local enforcement, to launch a comprehensive,
coordinated offensive against America's most violent criminals.
President Bush requested funding for hiring 825 new Federal
agents and staff -- 375 at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms; 300 at the FBI; and 150 Deputy U.S. Marshalls. This
offensive, including State and local enforcement authorities,
will target violent criminals and repeat offenders.
Enhancing Prosecution. The President proposed to increase
funds for the U.S. Attorneys Offices to support 1,600 new
prosecutors and staff, and increase funds for the Justice
Department Criminal Division to support 168 new attorneys, to
handle drug cases, weapons offenses and other priority matters.
Expanding Prison Capacity. The President proposed an
addtional $1 billion for Federal prison construction, bringing
the total FY 1990 budget to over $1.5 billion. This will
increase Federal prison capacity by nearly 80 percent, adding
over 24,000 new prison beds.
PRESIDENT BUSH LAUNCHES NEW STRATEGY TO "TAKE BACK THE STREETS"
On May 15, the President participated in the National Peace
Officers' Memorial Day Service, declaring to law enforcement
officers assembled on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, "We're going
to take back the streets -- by taking criminals off the streets." "
He urged a "return to common sense," and continued, "A common
sense approach to crime means that if we are going to affect
people's behavior, we must have a criminal justice system in
which there is an expectation that: If you commit a crime, you
will be caught; and if caught, you will be prosecuted; and if
convicted, you will do time.' After unveiling his new offensive
to fight what he called the "new class of criminals" on our
streets, the President concluded, "Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in front of the Capitol and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war. Never was the toll more visible
than in the faces of the brave men and women -- the families --
gathered here today. And when I first stood here as President
I made a promise: 'This scourge will stop.' And that's a
promise we intend to keep."
LAW ENFORCEMENT LEADERS BACK KEY ELEMENTS OF CRIME PACKAGE
Across the country, law enforcement officials are backing
the President's proposals to fight crime:
"He sent a message to the criminal element that if you
commit a crime you're going to get caught, that if you get caught
you're going to get prosecuted, and if you get prosecuted and
convicted you're going to jail -- and that requires a broad,
comprehensive program of the type he proposed today. " -- Attorney
General Richard Thornburgh.
"We feel [the President's package] is a get-tough policy,
and one that is urgently required if we are to make any headway
in fighting crime. We are encouraged by the President's
commitment to the crime issue.' -- John Bellizzi, Executive
Director, International Narcotics Enforcement Officers
Association.
"George Bush has never wavered in his commitment against
crime and in his support for victims of crime. This package is
consistent -- and in fact is going forward -- with what he has
been doing." -- Frank Carrington, Executive Director, Victims'
Assistance Legal Organization.
"The president took the first step
...
I thought the step he
took was a giant step. I applaud the President's law enforcement
package. [In Washington, ] we have the strongest handgun law in
the country
and outside of a national handgun ban, I don't
think the President could have done anything more than he did
yesterday. " -- Washington, D.C. Police Chief Maurice Turner
"I am very pleased with the idea that there are going to be
added federal prosecutors, that they're adding new employees to
the ATF and US Marshalls, and the fact that there is $1 billion
for new prison construction." -- Mr. Robert Scully, National
President, National Association of Police Organizations
"We are especially heartened by the additional resources
being recommended for federal prosecutors and federal prisons
We also strongly endorse the President's position that calls for
reform of our habeas corpus procedures and the provision which
would provide a good faith exception to the Exclusionary Rule."
-- Mr. Jack Yelverton, Executive Director, National District
Attorneys Association.
# # #
1220E0B
036867 SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/17/89
5/18/89 4:00 PM
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
WHITE HOUSE WIRE ON FIGHTING CRIME
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 4:00 12:06 PM, Thursday, May 18, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Comments
attached
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
( (Grant) 1989 MAY
May 15, 1989>
10 a.m.
WHITE HOUSE WIRE
ON FIGHTING CRIME
PRESIDENT UNVEILS WIDE-RANGING PACKAGE TO FIGHT VIOLENT CRIME
On May 15, 1989, President Bush outlined a comprehensive
program to combat violent crime, designed to strengthen the
nation's criminal justice system and the Federal, state, and
local law enforcement partnership. The President is proposing a
common-sense approach to crime with proposals to limit access to
weapons by criminals, to reform the criminal justice system, to
enhance enforcement and prosecution, and to expand prison
capacity to ensure both the certainty and severity of punishment.
Principles guiding the President's proposals: Four
principles underlie the goals of our criminal justice system and
the means for accomplishing them:
We must protect citizens and their property, because
Americans deserve to live in a society in which they
are safe and feel secure.
Those who commit violent crimes should, and must, be
held accountable for their actions.
Our criminal justice system must have as its objective
the swift and certain apprehension, prosecution and
incarceration of those who break the law.
Success in accomplishing these goals requires a
sustained, cooperative effort by Federal, State and
local law enforcement authorities.
Elements of The Comprehesive Crime Control Act of 1989:
I. Strengthening Current Laws. The President is calling on
Congress to double the mandatory minimum penalties -- from five
years to ten years in Federal prison -- for the use of semi-
automatic weapons in violent crimes or drug felonies. In
addition, the Attorney General has been directed to advise
limit (plione)
Federal prosecutors to end plea bargaining for violent Federal
firearms offenses. President Bush called on Congress to enact
the steps necessary to implement the death penalty for the most
serious Federal crimes, and urged state Governors to match this
Federal initiative -- new mandatory sentencing, tougher rules on
plea bargaining, and implementing the death penalty -- in the
States.
The President also announced that the Administration will
ation any
make permanent the temporary suspension on the import of certain
which fail to measure up to AT F standards,
semi-automatic weaponsA and nis support for legislation
prohibiting the importation, manufacture, sale or transfer of gun
magazines of more than 15 rounds. And, to keep deadly weapons
out of deadly hands, the President called on Congress to close
loopholes like the one that allowed Patrick Edward Purdy to buy
that deadly AKS-47 in Stockton, California.
Augmenting Enforcement. The President has directed the
Attorney General and the Treasury Secretary, working together
with state and local enforcement, to launch a comprehensive,
coordinated offensive against America's most violent criminals.
President Bush requested funding for hiring 825 new Federal
agents and staff -- 375 at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms; 300 at the FBI; and 150 Deputy U.S. Marshalls. This
offensive, including State and local enforcement authorities,
will target violent criminals and repeat offenders.
Enhancing Prosecution. The President proposed to increase
funds for the U.S. Attorneys Offices to support 1,600 new
prosecutors and staff, and increase funds for the Justice
Positions.
Department Criminal Division to support 168 new attorneys, to
handle drug cases, weapons offenses and other priority matters.
Expanding Prison Capacity. The President proposed an
addtional $1 billion for Federal prison construction, bringing
the total FY 1990 budget to over $1.5 billion. This will
increase Federal prison capacity by nearly 80 percent, adding
over 24,000 new prison beds.
PRESIDENT BUSH LAUNCHES NEW STRATEGY TO "TAKE BACK THE STREETS"
On May 15, the President participated in the National Peace
Officers' Memorial Day Service, declaring to law enforcement
officers assembled on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, "We're going
to take back the streets -- by taking criminals off the streets." "
He urged a "return to common sense," and continued, "A common
sense approach to crime means that if we are going to affect
people's behavior, we must have a criminal justice system in
which there is an expectation that: If you commit a crime, you
will be caught; and if caught, you will be prosecuted; and if
convicted, you will do time.' After unveiling his new offensive
to fight what he called the "new class of criminals" on our
streets, the President concluded, "Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in front of the Capitol and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war. Never was the toll more visible
than in the faces of the brave men and women -- the families --
gathered here today. And when I first stood here as President
I made a promise: 'This scourge will stop.' And that's a
promise we intend to keep."
LAW ENFORCEMENT LEADERS BACK KEY ELEMENTS OF CRIME PACKAGE
Across the country, law enforcement officials are backing
the President's proposals to fight crime:
"He sent a message to the criminal element that if you
commit a crime you're going to get caught, that if you get caught
you're going to get prosecuted, and if you get prosecuted and
convicted you're going to jail -- and that requires a broad,
comprehensive program of the type he proposed today. " -- Attorney
Dick
General Richard Thornburgh.
"We feel [the President's package] is a get-tough policy,
and one that is urgently required if we are to make any headway
in fighting crime. We are encouraged by the President's
commitment to the crime issue." -- John Bellizzi, Executive
Director, International Narcotics Enforcement Officers
Association.
"George Bush has never wavered in his commitment against
crime and in his support for victims of crime. This package is
consistent -- and in fact is going forward -- with what he has
been doing." -- Frank Carrington, Executive Director, Victims'
Assistance Legal Organization.
"The president took the first step
...
I thought the step he
took was a giant step. I applaud the President's law enforcement
package. [In Washington, ] we have the strongest handgun law in
the country
... and outside of a national handgun ban, I don't
think the President could have done anything more than he did
yesterday." -- Washington, D.C. Police Chief Maurice Turner
"I am very pleased with the idea that there are going to be
added federal prosecutors, that they're adding new employees to
the ATF and US Marshalls, and the fact that there is $1 billion
for new prison construction." -- Mr. Robert Scully, National
President, National Association of Police Organizations
"We are especially heartened by the additional resources
being recommended for federal prosecutors and federal prisons
...
We also strongly endorse the President's position that calls for
reform of our habeas corpus procedures and the provision which
would provide a good faith exception to the Exclusionary Rule." "
-- Mr. Jack Yelverton, Executive Director, National District
Attorneys Association.
###
Dave Renkel- 633-2107 - Justice
Ede Holiday - 566-2093- Treasury
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 17, 1989
MEMORANDUM TO CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
JIM PINKERTON P
SUBJECT:
White House Wire on Fighting Crime
One comment:
pg. 5, para. 2, lines 3-6
We should omit these sentences from
Chief Turner's statement implying that the President should enact
a national handgun ban.
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 17, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FOR
COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
NELSON LUND M
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
White House Wire on Fighting Crime
At the request of James W. Cicconi, Counsel's office has reviewed
the captioned draft document. We have several comments.
(1) Page 2, lines 8-11, says that "the Attorney General has been
directed to advise Federal prosecutors to end plea bargaining for
violent Federal firearms offenses." Although this is consistent
with language in the President's May 15 speech, the May 15 fact
sheet that went to the President appears to indicate that a less
definite directive was issued to the Attorney General. Counsel's
office recommends that care be exercised to ensure that this and
future statements are consistent with whatever directive was in
fact given to the Attorney General.
(2) Page 2, lines 13-14. The last word on line 13 should
apparently be "these" rather than "this," and the second word on
line 14 should apparently be "initiatives" rather than
"initiative."
(3) Page 2, lines 17-19. This phrase implies that the President
has prejudged the outcome of the Treasury Department study of
certain semiautomatic weapons that was initiated in March.
Counsel's office strongly recommends that extreme care be taken
to avoid any such implication in any Presidential or White House
statement. The President's May 15 speech contained appropriate
language, as did the version of the May 15 fact sheet that went
to the President.
(4) Page 2, last line. The word "enforcement" should apparently
be changed to "authorities."
Counsel's office appreciates having had the opportunity to review
this draft document.
CC: James W. Cicconi
036867 ss
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/17/89
5/18/89 4:00 PM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
WHITE HOUSE WIRE ON FIGHTING CRIME
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
WINSTON
CARD
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM, Thursday, May 18, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
All commonst
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
( (Grant)
MAY
May 15, 1989,
10 a.m.
WHITE HOUSE WIRE
ON FIGHTING CRIME
PRESIDENT UNVEILS WIDE-RANGING PACKAGE TO FIGHT VIOLENT CRIME
On May 15, 1989, President Bush outlined a comprehensive
program to combat violent crime, designed to strengthen the
nation's criminal justice system and the Federal, state, and
local law enforcement partnership. The President is proposing a
common-sense approach to crime with proposals to limit access to
weapons by criminals, to reform the criminal justice system, to
enhance enforcement and prosecution, and to expand prison
capacity to ensure both the certainty and severity of punishment.
Principles guiding the President's proposals: Four
1 chair is
only as strong
as its weakest
principles underlie the goals of our criminal justice system and link.
Therefore
the means for accomplishing them:
We must protect citizens and their property, because
Americans deserve to live in a society in which they
are safe and feel secure.
Those who commit violent crimes should, and must, be
held accountable for their actions.
Our criminal justice system must have as its objective
the swift and certain apprehension, prosecution and
incarceration of those who break the law.
Success in accomplishing these goals requires a
sustained, cooperative effort by Federal, State and
local law enforcement authorities.
Elements of The Comprehesive Crime Control Act of 1989:
I. Strengthening Current Laws. The President is calling on
Congress to double the mandatory minimum penalties -- from five
years to ten years in Federal prison -- for the use of semi-
automatic weapons in violent crimes or drug felonies. In
addition, the Attorney General has been directed to advise
Federal prosecutors to end plea bargaining for violent Federal
firearms offenses. President Bush called on Congress to enact
the steps necessary to implement the death penalty for the most
serious Federal crimes, and urged state Governors to match this
Federal initiative -- new mandatory sentencing, tougher rules on
plea bargaining, and implementing the death penalty -- in the
States.
The President also announced that the Administration will
make permanent the temporary suspension on the import of certain
semi-automatic weapons, and his support for legislation
prohibiting the importation, manufacture, sale or transfer of gun
magazines of more than 15 rounds. And, to keep deadly weapons
out of deadly hands, the President called on Congress to close
loopholes like the one that allowed Patrick Edward Purdy to buy
that deadly AKS-47 in Stockton, California.
Augmenting Enforcement. The President has directed the
Attorney General and the Treasury Secretary, working together
with state and local enforcement, to launch a comprehensive,
coordinated offensive against America's most violent criminals.
President Bush requested funding for hiring 825 new Federal
agents and staff -- 375 at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms; 300 at the FBI; and 150 Deputy U.S. Marshalls. This
offensive, including State and local enforcement authorities,
will target violent criminals and repeat offenders.
Enhancing Prosecution. The President proposed to increase
funds for the U.S. Attorneys Offices to support 1,600 new
prosecutors and staff, and increase funds for the Justice
Department Criminal Division to support 168 new attorneys, to
handle drug cases, weapons offenses and other priority matters.
Expanding Prison Capacity. The President proposed an
addtional $1 billion for Federal prison construction, bringing
the total FY 1990 budget to over $1.5 billion. This will
increase Federal prison capacity by nearly 80 percent, adding
over 24,000 new prison beds.
PRESIDENT BUSH LAUNCHES NEW STRATEGY TO "TAKE BACK THE STREETS"
On May 15, the President participated in the National Peace
Officers' Memorial Day Service, declaring to law enforcement
officers assembled on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, "We're going
to take back the streets -- by taking criminals off the streets." "
He urged a "return to common sense," and continued, "A common
sense approach to crime means that if we are going to affect
people's behavior, we must have a criminal justice system in
which there is an expectation that: If you commit a crime, you
will be caught; and if caught, you will be prosecuted; and if
convicted, you will do time.' II After unveiling his new offensive
to fight what he called the "new class of criminals" on our
streets, the President concluded, "Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in front of the Capitol and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war. Never was the toll more visible
than in the faces of the brave men and women -- the families --
gathered here today. And when I first stood here as President
I made a promise: 'This scourge will stop.' And that's a
promise we intend to keep."
LAW ENFORCEMENT LEADERS BACK KEY ELEMENTS OF CRIME PACKAGE
Across the country, law enforcement officials are backing
the President's proposals to fight crime:
"He sent a message to the criminal element that if you
commit a crime you're going to get caught, that if you get caught
you're going to get prosecuted, and if you get prosecuted and
convicted you're going to jail -- and that requires a broad,
comprehensive program of the type he proposed today. " -- Attorney
General Richard Thornburgh.
"We feel [the President's package] is a get-tough policy,
and one that is urgently required if we are to make any headway
in fighting crime. We are encouraged by the President's
commitment to the crime issue." -- John Bellizzi, Executive
Director, International Narcotics Enforcement Officers
Association.
"George Bush has never wavered in his commitment against
crime and in his support for victims of crime. This package is
consistent -- and in fact is going forward -- with what he has
been doing." -- Frank Carrington, Executive Director, Victims'
Assistance Legal Organization.
"The president took the first step
I thought the step he
took was a giant step. I applaud the President's law enforcement
package. [In Washington, ] we have the strongest handgun law in
the country
and outside of a national handgun ban, I don't
think the President could have done anything more than he did
yesterday " -- Washington, D.C. Police Chief Maurice Turner
"I am very pleased with the idea that there are going to be
added federal prosecutors, that they're adding new employees to
the ATF and US Marshalls, and the fact that there is $1 billion
for new prison construction." -- Mr. Robert Scully, National
President, National Association of Police Organizations
"We are especially heartened by the additional resources
being recommended for federal prosecutors and federal prisons
We also strongly endorse the President's position that calls for
reform of our habeas corpus procedures and the provision which
would provide a good faith exception to the Exclusionary Rule."
-- Mr. Jack Yelverton, Executive Director, National District
Attorneys Association.
# # #
Document No.
036867 ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/17/89
5/18/89 4:00 PM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
WHITE HOUSE WIRE ON FIGHTING CRIME
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM, Thursday, May 18, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
ok
GBW
5/17
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
(Glynco, Georgia)
For Immediate Release
June 15, 1989
TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:
Today I am pleased to transmit proposed legislation
entitled the "Comprehensive Violent Crime Control Act of
1989." As the American people are aware, our Nation is
experiencing a surge of violent criminal behavior, linked in
no small degree to the scourge of illegal drugs currently
prevalent in our border areas, our cities, and our
neighborhoods.
On May 15, 1989, I outlined a comprehensive program,
consisting of both legislative and non-legislative items, to
combat violent crime. This program is a logical approach to
the violent crime problem that focuses on four major
objectives: strengthening current laws; augmenting
enforcement; enhancing prosecution; and expanding prison
capacity. The seven-title proposal that I am sending you
today represents the actions that we believe the Congress
should take in each of these areas. Its enactment would help
reduce the incidence of violent crime in our society.
Dealing with crime is not a novel problem, nor is it one
with which we can ever expect fully to succeed. Nevertheless,
assuring the physical safety of our citizens and inhabitants
is among the very highest responsibilities of government, and
it is a top priority of my Administration.
Traditionally, dealing with violent crime has been, and
should properly remain, primarily the function of State and
local law enforcement authorities. Yet it is clear that the
Federal Government also has an important leadership role to
play.
The Federal Government cannot properly discharge its
duties in this regard, however, unless the Nation's criminal
laws, the essential backbone of the Federal justice system,
are modernized and strengthened. A substantial strengthening
of our laws would help all elements of the Federal criminal
justice system -- law enforcement officials, prosecutors,
judges, and correctional authorities -- to execute their
responsibilities with maximum effectiveness.
In recent years, substantial progress has been made
toward this goal. Each of the last three Congresses, with the
2
opportunities for our citizens. Our immediate task, however,
and the one with which the present set of proposals is
concerned, is to improve the Federal criminal justice system
to render it able to dispense swift, sure, and fair justice.
Persons who endanger society through the commission of violent
offenses must know that their behavior will not be tolerated.
The present bill would improve the criminal justice
system in several important ways.
First, the laws relating to firearms possession and use
need to be carefully scrutinized to insure that, while the
legitimate rights of firearm owners are protected,
illegitimate use and possession of firearms are subject to
proper punishment. In this regard, the Congress passed a
major firearms statute in 1986, which generally struck a
proper balance in this area. But our examination has revealed
a number of instances in which the provisions of that law
should be strengthened.
For example, I do not think it was the intention of the
Congress to permit convicted felons, imprisoned for dangerous
crimes, to be able to purchase firearms immediately upon their
release from prison, merely because State law generally
restores rights of citizenship to persons who have served
their sentences. Yet that result may be required under the
Federal statute as it is written today. Similarly, persons
who use a semiautomatic weapon to commit a violent or drug
felony are punished no more severely under present law than if
an ordinary handgun had been employed. Existing Federal law
also contains no penalty for stealing a firearm and lacks a
clear definition of the offense of burglary. These defects
and others would be remedied under a package of proposed
firearms amendments that is included in the proposed
legislation.
Second, building on the work of the 100th Congress,
which, for the first time in recent memory, created a limited
Federal death penalty for certain drug-related killings, this
proposal would establish procedures necessary to institute a
capital sanction for murders committed in violation of other
Federal statutes, such as those involving murder-for-hire and
the murder of a kidnap victim or a Federal prison guard. The
proposed provisions are in compliance with all relevant
Supreme Court decisions, and their enactment is long overdue.
I believe it is absolutely essential to bring Federal law into
conformity with the law in the more than three-quarters of the
States that have passed statutes to reinstate the death
penalty for a limited number of heinous crimes.
Third, the proposal includes provisions designed to
impose severe restrictions on ammunition clips and other
ammunition feeding devices frequently used to enable so-called
"assault weapons" to fire a large number of rounds rapidly and
without reloading. Under my Administration's proposal, a
magazine or other ammunition feeding device with a capacity of
greater than 15 rounds would be subject to manufactured. strict regulation
3
Limited manufacture or importation for purposes of
export or for sale to Government agencies would be authorized,
but such large-capacity devices, like a firearm today, would
be subject to identification by requiring serial numbers.
While an ammunition feeding device, like a firearm itself, is
not inherently evil, the enhanced potential for danger to
law-abiding citizens posed by the unlawful use of weapons
equipped with such devices in criminal hands makes it
necessary to impose these restrictions in the interest of
public safety.
Fourth, my proposal would establish a nationwide program.
of mandatory drug testing for defendants on post-conviction
release, including probation, parole, or supervised release.
It is estimated that upwards of 81,000 individuals will be on
some form of Federal supervised release in 1990. The known
association between criminal behavior and drug abuse is such
that drug testing as a condition of release for convicted
persons is an essential precaution to help enhance the public
safety, while also promoting rehabilitative goals. I have
proposed that $10.7 million be appropriated for this activity
in fiscal year 1990.
Fifth, the proposal contains provisions to reform the
so-called "exclusionary rule." Under this rule, Federal
courts today exclude or suppress probative evidence obtained
by searches and seizures conducted in good faith by law
enforcement officials. The result is that factually guilty
individuals avoid conviction and punishment. Under my
proposal, any evidence that is obtained as a result of a
search or seizure undertaken in objectively reasonable good
faith, as determined by a court, would be admissible at trial,
notwithstanding that a magistrate or judge later found that
the search did not satisfy constitutional requirements.
Suppression of evidence in criminal trials -- which are
supposed to represent a search for truth on the issue of a
defendant's guilt or innocence -- is not an appropriate remedy
to redress innocent mistakes. Law enforcement officers must
frequently make split-second decisions on matters involving
difficult constitutional issues on which even judges may
disagree. Enactment of this proposal is necessary in order to
make the justice system work effectively.
The exclusionary rule would remain, under my proposal, as
a permissible sanction for intentional violations, but no
longer would a criminal escape punishment because of a
technical mistake in conducting a search or seizure. The
House of Representatives last year passed a similar proposal,
which unfortunately was deleted in the conference agreement on
the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988. The proposal should be
enacted this year.
Sixth, the proposed bill would restore an appropriate
degree of finality to State and Federal criminal convictions
by curtailing abuses of the writ of habeas corpus. Under
4
With the massive delays in many Federal districts
occasioned by an overwhelming caseload, we can no longer
afford the luxury of this system of excessive opportunity for
review of "final" criminal judgments. An effective justice
system requires that final adjudications not be subject to
continuous review. No innocent individual should be denied an
avenue through which to petition the Federal courts to review
his or her conviction. But at the same time, those persons
who have been tried and found guilty, and whose legal claims
have been rejected after full and fair consideration, should
not be allowed to relitigate endlessly in the Federal courts.
Under the proposed amendments, the opportunity for
certain kinds of collateral attacks upon a conviction would be
limited by a time period of 1 or 2 years, with due exceptions
for the assertion of rights newly created or facts newly
discovered. Similarly, Federal courts would be admonished to
give presumptive validity to any full and fair determination
of a factual issue by a State court.
A nearly identical proposal was overwhelmingly passed by
the Senate in 1984. Its enactment this year would improve the
justice system and relieve the Federal courts, thereby freeing
them to hear other cases and to dispense justice to others
more promptly.
Seventh, and finally, the proposed bill would authorize
appropriations for several activities of the Department of
Justice to augment Federal law enforcement personnel, increase
prosecutorial efforts, and expand prison capacity. These
appropriation authorizations, along with the increased funding
I have requested for the Judiciary and the Bureau of Alcohol,
Tobacco and Firearms in the Department of the Treasury --
a total government-wide increase of about $1.2 billion in
1990 -- will make possible a tougher, more vigorous, and more
effective fight against violent crime.
When I stood before the United States Capitol on May 15
and addressed the families of the brave and valiant peace
officers who gave lives in the battle to rid America of drugs
and crime, I promised them -- as I did the American people on
the day I assumed this office -- that "this scourge will
stop." Enactment of the set of proposals that I present to
you today, as well as implementation of the other initiatives
that I announced last month, will be a major step in keeping
that promise. I urge that these important proposals promptly
be considered and enacted. We owe the people of our great
Nation no less.
GEORGE BUSH
THE WHITE HOUSE,
THE white HOUSE
washington
VHITE HOUSE
May 22, 1989
SHINGTON
7 18, 1989
Chriss Winston:
-
These changes have already been
called in on May 18, but I am
I
sending the attached for your
files.
HOUSE WIRE ON FIGHTING CRIME"
- Carolyn Vaughan
(x2270)
attributed to Washington Police Chief
tremely controversial issue of a
control
e Washington Police Department has
e and justice experts
Turner that Washington D.C. has the
1 the nation is factually debatable -
carries equally stiff mandatory
penalties
The Turner quote should be substituted by a quote from another
prominent law enforcement official such as Los Angeles Police
Chief Darryl Gates, who has enthusiastically supported the
President's policies on crime and justice.
###
( (Grant) )
May 15, 1989
10 a.m.
WHITE HOUSE WIRE
ON FIGHTING CRIME
PRESIDENT UNVEILS WIDE-RANGING PACKAGE TO FIGHT VIOLENT CRIME
On May 15, 1989, President Bush outlined a comprehensive
program to combat violent crime, designed to strengthen the
nation's criminal justice system and the Federal, state, and
local law enforcement partnership. The President is proposing a
common-sense approach to crime with proposals to limit access to
weapons by criminals, to reform the criminal justice system, to
enhance enforcement and prosecution, and to expand prison
capacity to ensure both the certainty and severity of punishment.
Principles guiding the President's proposals: Four
principles underlie the goals of our criminal justice system and
the means for accomplishing them:
We must protect citizens and their property, because
Americans deserve to live in a society in which they
are safe and feel secure.
Those who commit violent crimes should, and must, be
held accountable for their actions.
Our criminal justice system must have as its objective
the swift and certain apprehension, prosecution and
incarceration of those who break the law.
Success in accomplishing these goals requires a
sustained, cooperative effort by Federal, State and
local law enforcement authorities.
Elements of The Comprehesive Crime Control Act of 1989:
I. Strengthening Current Laws. The President is calling on
Congress to double the mandatory minimum penalties -- from five
years to ten years in Federal prison -- for the use of semi-
automatic weapons in violent crimes or drug felonies. In
addition, the Attorney General has been directed to advise
Federal prosecutors to end plea bargaining for violent Federal
firearms offenses. President Bush called on Congress to enact
the steps necessary to implement the death penalty for the most
serious Federal crimes, and urged state Governors to match this
Federal initiative -- new mandatory sentencing, tougher rules on
plea bargaining, and implementing the death penalty -- in the
States.
The President also announced that the Administration will
make permanent the temporary suspension on the import of certain
semi-automatic weapons, and his support for legislation
prohibiting the importation, manufacture, sale or transfer of gun
magazines of more than 15 rounds. And, to keep deadly weapons
out of deadly hands, the President called on Congress to close
loopholes like the one that allowed Patrick Edward Purdy to buy
that deadly AKS-47 in Stockton, California.
Augmenting Enforcement. The President has directed the
Attorney General and the Treasury Secretary, working together
with state and local enforcement, to launch a comprehensive,
coordinated offensive against America's most violent criminals.
President Bush requested funding for hiring 825 new Federal
agents and staff -- 375 at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms; 300 at the FBI; and 150 Deputy U.S. Marshalls. This
offensive, including State and local enforcement authorities,
will target violent criminals and repeat offenders.
Enhancing Prosecution. The President proposed to increase
funds for the U.S. Attorneys Offices to support 1,600 new
prosecutors and staff, and increase funds for the Justice
Department Criminal Division to support 168 new attorneys, to
handle drug cases, weapons offenses and other priority matters.
Expanding Prison Capacity. The President proposed an
addtional $1 billion for Federal prison construction, bringing
the total FY 1990 budget to over $1.5 billion. This will
increase Federal prison capacity by nearly 80 percent, adding
over 24,000 new prison beds.
PRESIDENT BUSH LAUNCHES NEW STRATEGY TO "TAKE BACK THE STREETS"
On May 15, the President participated in the National Peace
Officers' Memorial Day Service, declaring to law enforcement
officers assembled on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, "We're going
to take back the streets -- by taking criminals off the streets."
He urged a "return to common sense," and continued, "A common
sense approach to crime means that if we are going to affect
people's behavior, we must have a criminal justice system in
which there is an expectation that: If you commit a crime, you
will be caught; and if caught, you will be prosecuted; and if
convicted, you will do time." After unveiling his new offensive
to fight what he called the "new class of criminals" on our
streets, the President concluded, "Not since Lincoln has a
President stood in front of the Capitol and been just a few miles
from the front line of a war. Never was the toll more visible
than in the faces of the brave men and women -- the families --
gathered here today. And when I first stood here as President
I made a promise: 'This scourge will stop.' And that's a
promise we intend to keep."
LAW ENFORCEMENT LEADERS BACK KEY ELEMENTS OF CRIME PACKAGE
Across the country, law enforcement officials are backing
the President's proposals to fight crime:
"He sent a message to the criminal element that if you
commit a crime you're going to get caught, that if you get caught
you're going to get prosecuted, and if you get prosecuted and
convicted you're going to jail -- and that requires a broad,
comprehensive program of the type he proposed today." " -- Attorney
General Richard Thornburgh.
"We feel [the President's package] is a get-tough policy,
and one that is urgently required if we are to make any headway
in fighting crime. We are encouraged by the President's
commitment to the crime issue." -- John Bellizzi, Executive
Director, International Narcotics Enforcement Officers
Association.
"George Bush has never wavered in his commitment against
crime and in his support for victims of crime. This package is
consistent -- and in fact is going forward -- with what he has
been doing." -- Frank Carrington, Executive Director, Victims'
Assistance Legal Organization.
"The president took the first step
I thought the step he
Delete
took was a giant step. I applaud the President's law enforcement
#
package. [In Washington,] we have the strongest handgun law in
the country
No
and outside of a national handgun ban, I don't
contribution
think the President could have done anything more than he did
to
yesterday." -- Washington, D.C. Police Chief Maurice Turner
"I am very pleased with the idea that there are going to be
added federal prosecutors, that they're adding new employees to
the ATF and US Marshalls, and the fact that there is $1 billion
for new prison construction." -- Mr. Robert Scully, National
President, National Association of Police Organizations
"We are especially heartened by the additional resources
being recommended for federal prosecutors and federal prisons
We also strongly endorse the President's position that calls for
reform of our habeas corpus procedures and the provision which
would provide a good faith exception to the Exclusionary Rule."
-- Mr. Jack Yelverton, Executive Director, National District
Attorneys Association.
9. rauses contonery # # # of havelger ban
b. attribution do PD w/ dishonsis
C1 Queston dept factual accuracy
LA chief - Dariyl yates