COLUMBUS, Ohio – Acting U.S. Attorney Benjamin C. Glassman, in partnership with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction Office of Reentry and the Ohio Association of Local Reentry Coalitions, convened professional reentry stakeholders from across the District to discuss best practices and partnerships moving forward.
As part of the Obama Administration’s commitment to strengthening the criminal justice system, the Department of Justice designated the week of April 24-30, 2016, as National Reentry Week. National Reentry Week events are taking place in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. U.S. Attorney’s Offices alone are hosting more than 200 events and Bureau of Prisons facilities are holding more than 370 events.
“Too often, justice-involved individuals who have paid their debt to society confront daunting obstacles to good jobs, decent housing, adequate health care, quality education, and even the right to vote,” said Attorney General Lynch. “National Reentry Week highlights the many ways that the Department of Justice – and the entire Obama Administration – is working to tear down the barriers that stand between returning citizens and a meaningful second chance – leading to brighter futures, stronger communities, and a more just and equal nation for all.”
More than 50 individuals representing 30 local, state and federal government agencies and service providers participated, including leadership from the U.S. District Court, Federal Probation Office, Governor John Kasich’s Office and Franklin County Commissioner Marilyn Brown’s Office.
“Reentry is a matter of both public safety and justice, and we are committed to it,” Acting U.S. Attorney Glassman said. “In this, as in so many areas, we are at our best when we collaborate, share information, and work together. Today’s session is a step forward in connecting the many worthy efforts at strengthening reentry in Ohio at the local, state, and federal levels. I am proud to work with all of these partners in support of making Ohio a safer and fairer place for all of our citizens, including those returning home after a term of incarceration.”
The group committed to building more effective partnerships moving forward between every level of government by formalizing information sharing and reconvening at least annually.
To join future efforts, contact Jennifer Thornton at jennifer.thornton@usdoj.gov.