Fresno may ignore lesser 'quality of life' crimes

[Newsjock]

Source: Fresno Bee

The Fresno City Attorney's Office says it no longer has the staff or money to prosecute so-called "quality of life" violations such as begging on median islands or soliciting a prostitute.

"These lesser kinds of items are important to the community, but we simply don't have the budget," said City Attorney Jim Sanchez. "We've ceased to prosecute 'quality of life' violations. We no longer have the resources."

... Sanchez said his office faces a $500,000 budget cut after Jan. 1, which will cause the loss of two or three attorneys. The department now has 19 attorneys, including Sanchez, who provide legal advice to the council, the mayor and city departments and commissions.

Read more: http://www.fresnobee.com/2010/12/09/2192533/fresno-may-ignore-lesser-quality.html