Charles E. Grassley: “last Wednesday, the New York Times ran a lengthy article on the growing number of crimes committed by gangs of white…”

“last Wednesday, the New York Times ran a lengthy article on the growing number of crimes committed by gangs of white youths. The article focused on the brutal and senseless murder last August of 17-year-old Michelle Jensen in my own State on Iowa. Miss Jensen was killed because she would not turn over her car keys so that the gang members could rob a convenience store. Three youths, aged 17, 18, and 19, were convicted of murder for their role in the crime, and three other gang member were convicted of lesser offenses. For many years, Iowa was spared the ravages of gang activity that have plagued other states. Although rural crime is growing at a rapid rate, Iowa still has a crime rate much below the national average. In recent years, gangs have begun to be formed in my State. In the quad cities, at least 23 gangs roam the streets. As tragic as this crime was, I can at least praise the State of Iowa for its response. Suspects were taken into custody quickly, and have been convicted less than 9 months later. The trigger man was convicted of first degree murder and robbery, and the others present at the scene were convicted of second degree murder and robbery. In Iowa, our criminal laws are more enlightened than 'three strikes and you're out' if someone commits violent offenses. Iowa's tough criminal justice system will sentence all three of these individuals, despite their ages, to life without parole.”