Democratic Representative Josh Riley from New York is experiencing backlash after endorsing the expungement of violent felons’ records.
Riley, who represents New York’s 19th Congressional District, backed a bill known as the “blank slate withdrawal law,” which has now been signed into law by Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, as reported by Local Spectrum News.
The legislation will come into effect in November 2024, automatically sealing an individual’s criminal record three years after completing a misdemeanor sentence and eight years post-release for most felonies.
This law could facilitate the sealing of records for several felons in Democratic-held districts, raising concerns as some individuals, like a man who recently fled the scene after fatally running over a 13-year-old, may benefit from it.
Delaware County District Attorney Sean Smith voiced his concerns, suggesting that such clean slate laws may reward repeat offenders while compromising the safety of honest citizens. He stated that giving criminals a pass could further undermine public safety and has contributed to rising crime rates.
He underscored that when such felons aren’t fully held accountable, it weakens the justice system, saying, “The notion that criminals shouldn’t be accountable for their actions has resulted in an increase in crime.” In a specific case, a man charged with manslaughter—after fleeing a fatal accident involving a child—might have his record sealed due to this new law.
Critics, including Senator Peter Oberacker, have slammed the bill, claiming that it endangers families and communities by keeping violent offenders’ records hidden from the public eye. When the legislation was debated back in 2022, Riley showed his support, citing the importance of clean slate laws, which he also highlighted on his campaign website.
Oberacker has specifically targeted Riley, stating that “this law needs to be repealed,” vowing to push back against it in Congress.
Riley’s support for such legislation aligns with other criminal justice reform initiatives he has backed, and he has received contributions from organizations advocating for bail reform. Additionally, he’s faced scrutiny over his business ties to a distillery in Washington, D.C., which employs anti-law enforcement branding.
Critics have pointed to Riley’s connections with progressive groups and figures associated with criminal justice reform, including New York’s mayor.
A spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee labeled Riley a “danger to voters.” Efforts to reach Riley for comment were unsuccessful prior to publication.
