A weak case

Re “Keep crack criminals in prison,” Opinion, Feb. 27

The day after Congress considered the appalling inequity of crack cocaine sentences, acting Deputy Atty. Gen. Craig Morford repeated repudiated allegations about shortening crack sentences for some prisoners.

Morford would do well to check his claim -- that early release will overwhelm the criminal justice system -- with his own U.S. attorneys who have cooperated with judges, probation officers, defenders and prison officials to fashion a smooth process.

With two legislative days until retroactivity takes effect, Morford’s request that Congress stop it to protect communities from violent crack offenders was insupportable and futile. Less than 5% of crack offenders engage in actual violence, and drug offenders have among the lowest recidivism rates.

Instead of whipping up fear, Morford should reassure communities that the nation’s prosecutors will identify and oppose the release of any prisoners who might pose a public safety threat.

Mary Price

Washington

The writer is vice president and general counsel with the organization Families Against Mandatory Minimums.