State Assembly Approves Video Arraingment

Legislator Mary Ellen Odell is ecstatic now that Putnam's electronic arraignment bill has been approved by the State Assembly.

Odell, who co-chairs the county's Commission on Fiscal Vision and Accountability along with Neal Sullivan, worked long and hard with District Attorney Adam Levy and Sheriff Donald Smith and his staff to discuss ways of streamlining procedures used at the Putnam Correctional Facility.

The team built upon the successes of scaling down weekend sentencing to eliminate costs and lost revenue due to holding cells that board "weekend" defendants, along with the re-implementation of a pre-trial release program that eliminates boarding costs while recogby nizing outside boarding revenue.

The commission also proposed the implementation of electronic arraignment in the county.

In an interview with the Courier last weekend Odell explained that the commission collaborated with other agencies involved to identify the pros and cons of the concept. "When we were complete, each of us was confident the program would reduce the need for deputies to transport defendants to as many as nine municipalities for in-person arraignments. translating into cost savings in payroll, overtime, fuel, and transportation, as well as enhanced public safety."

After consensus was reached to move the concept forward, commission members met with Assemblywoman Galef and State Senator Vincent Leibell to present the idea. The bill was introduced by the two state legislators and last week was approved by the lower house.

The matter is now pending in the Senate.

Twenty-three counties are currently participating in an electronic monitoring pilot program. Odell said the commission felt the county would be "wellserved to become part of that process."

The commission comprises elected officials, businessmen, and businesswomen, as well as members of the private sector who meet monthly to identify problems. "We all believe that government can do better for the people of Putnam County by examining and bringing forth fiscally responsible ideas and recommendations to improve both the effectiveness and efficiency of local government."

Odell said the panel was always open to suggestions and ideas. Those desiring to get in touch with the commission may call Odell at 225-8690 or contact putcoleg@putnamcountyny.com.