By Anthony D’Agostino, KOLN
Justice in Action, a faith-based organization representing 26 Lincoln faith communities, held a rally at the steps of the Hall of Justice on Thursday demanding the expansion of diversion programs.
The organization has been urging the Lancaster County Attorney for action, with no success.
They say over 700 people in Lincoln will spend this Thanksgiving in jail, not because they’ve been convicted of a crime, but because they are awaiting trial.
While some argue avoiding jail is simple, one pastor says it’s more complex than that.
“You’re assuming that everyone is in a situation where good decisions are automatically easy to make and that’s not always the case,” said Pastor Tobi White.
Leaders previously met with County Attorney Pat Condon, asking home to expand diversion program eligibility, but said he was a “no” on all items.
The organization argues that many individuals in jail are there for non-violent offenses and often grapple with addiction or mental health challenges, yet they are denied the support they need.
Rather than receiving help, they are isolated from their families and support systems during some of the most challenging times of the year.
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