MR/DD TASK FORCE SENDS RECOMMENDATIONS TO TAFT
COLUMBUS (December 19, 2002) -Governor Bob Taft today received the final recommendations from the MR/DD Victims of Crime Task Force.
The Governor appointed the task force in March to address the criminal justice system's treatment of people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities.
"The recommendations are the result of open and frank discussions by the dedicated and experienced members of the task force,'' Taft said. "I look forward to reviewing these recommendations and incorporating them into my legislative priorities."
Lorain County Prosecuting Attorney Gregory A. White led the 17-member task force. Task Force members included judges, attorneys, prosecutors, law enforcement officials, County Board of MR/DD representatives, coroners, and victim and family representatives.
An advisory committee was established to provide special expertise when needed.
"The task force members studied the scope of the problem, realized the urgent need for reform and proposed solutions that will assure that people with disabilities experience the full protection of the law," Taft said.
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Contact: Nancy Smeltzer, Ohio Department of MR/DD, 614-644-0262; or Joe Andrews,
Governor's Office, at (614) 644-0957.