California’s County Resentencing Pilot Program, active from 2021 to 2024, reshaped sentencing policies in nine counties, including Contra Costa, San Francisco, and Santa Clara. The program, backed by nearly $13 million in state funding, led to 227 resentencings and 174 releases, as reported by KQED. Aimed at addressing the lingering effects of “tough on crime” policies from the ’90s, it reviewed over 1,100 cases and allowed district attorneys to recommend resentencing for those who served long sentences and showed rehabilitation. The RAND Corporation highlighted successes but recommended clearer roles for involved parties and faster timelines. Santa Clara plans to continue reviewing cases post-pilot.
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