Waterbury,CT-

Isn’t it time we took a hard look at Connecticut’s court system—especially after the recent spree of crimes committed by repeat offenders released on parole, probation, or bail in Waterbury and beyond? Right now, our laws impose a mandatory 25-year minimum only in two cases: murder/felony murder and aggravated sexual assault of a minor. That’s it.

Then come Class A felonies – crimes like assaulting a pregnant woman resulting in termination (CGS 53a‑70c), home invasion (53a‑100aa), or human trafficking (53a‑192a). These offenses technically carry 10-year minimum sentences, but let’s be honest, that often means much less in real life.

As a Matter of Platt! Is it Time for a Change at 400 Grand?

Down the line, Class B felonies include assault on an elderly person (53a‑59a)—5 years minimum—and promoting prostitution involving a minor (53a‑86)—9 months. Robbery with a deadly weapon (53a‑134) also starts at 5 years.

And for Class C, you’ve got illegal firearm possession (53a‑217)—just 2 years minimum.

Here’s the kicker: those are sentencing minimums, not actual time behind bars. Connecticut law allows inmates to serve only 50% of their sentence, and that’s before we even factor in credit for time served and good behavior. So that 10-year term for home invasion? In reality, someone may serve a mere 3–5 years.

And that’s not theory—the system seems as if it incentivizes crime. People weigh the risk and rewards, and in a state divided between wealth and poverty, the scales tip in favor of criminal activity. With current statutes, it’s no surprise that crime in Waterbury and statewide has become “worth the risk”—often resulting in literally less than a wrist-slap.

What are your thoughts on the matter? Let us know