Retired Florida State Senator Victor D. Crist

State Senator Victor Crist (R-Tampa), chair of the Senate Criminal and Civil Justice Appropriations Committee has announced a legislative workshop to be held on November 18, 2009 to hear and discuss issues and ideas for programs and services that will focus on cultivating greater efficiency and effectiveness within the Criminal Justice System.

“This workshop is an excellent opportunity for providers and the public to meet and share ideas with policymakers,” Senator Crist said.  “Our goal is to gain insight and information, on how we can help prevent children and adults from entering the justice system and how we can best equip those within the system for re-entry so they can grow into productive members of society.”

Citing the tough economy and shrinking state funds, the Criminal and Civil Justice Appropriations Committee scheduled this workshop to encourage members of the public, community leaders, and other leaders to participate in the discussion and offer their ideas on how Florida can reduce the need for new prison beds by investing in programs and services that will effectively prevent, divert, treat, and rehabilitate individuals otherwise prone to an unproductive life within the Criminal Justice System.

“I have dedicated my legislative tenure to identifying and cultivating ways to reduce crime and stop the revolving door on recidivism,” said Senator Crist.  “If we can prevent crime, divert and provide treatment for offenders early, and effectively rehabilitate those within, we can reduce the need for future prison construction and direct more monies to vital programs and services that serve Floridians’ critical needs.”

Senator Crist has invited members of the House and Senate to participate. The workshop on November 18, 2009 will begin at 8:30 a.m. and will continue until 11:30 a.m. at the University Area Community Center Complex, 14013 North 22nd Street, Tampa, 33613, (813) 558-5212.