The Gray Area with Sean Illing Philadelphia's progressive prosecutor
Jul 29, 2021
Larry Krasner, Philadelphia's District Attorney and a former civil rights attorney, discusses his groundbreaking approach to criminal justice reform. He addresses the challenges of rising gun violence and economic disparities affecting marginalized communities. Krasner emphasizes the importance of preventive measures over punitive approaches, advocating for a no-cash bail system to reduce judicial inequalities. He also reflects on his transformation from public defender to a reformist DA, aiming to create systemic change in an often resistant system.
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Role of a District Attorney
- A District Attorney is a chief local prosecutor at the state or county level, making decisions about charges and sentences.
- Their decisions affect mass incarceration and how money is invested in the justice system.
Krasner's Primary Victory
- Krasner won the Democratic primary by a large margin (66.7%), exceeding expectations.
- This victory signifies strong support for progressive prosecution in Philadelphia and nationally.
Culture of Fear and Gun Violence
- Media often promotes a culture of fear, disproportionately blaming progressive prosecutors for rising crime.
- Gun violence surged nationally, not just in cities with progressive DAs.
