NEW ORLEANS – Every time someone is convicted in a criminal or a traffic case in Jefferson Parish, $2 of their court fees goes to Crimestoppers. And Tuesday, Crimestoppers Director Darlene Cusanza handed out red ribbons before a hearing on that fee.
One citizen is fighting to have the $2 fee removed, saying Crimestoppers is not a function of the court and thus shouldn't be getting the extra money.
Jefferson Parish officials argued that the Crimestoppers fee does not violate the law because it does assist law enforcement in the administration of justice.
And, for today at least, the judge agreed, so the $2 fee stays.
“I think it’s the right decision,” Cusanza said. “Certainly for Crimestoppers, I think we are integrally involved in the administration of justice. The administration, and the role that we serve, allows citizens to have a place in making sure criminals get put behind bars, where they belong.”
Attorney Sam Dalton, who represents the citizen who filed the complaint, said it's likely he will take the case all the way to the Louisiana Supreme Court.
“Bottom line is that it is unconstitutional,” Dalton said. “It should go through the legislation that tax, and let the people vote on it.”
Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand said, “we are certainly encouraged by the decision made by the court today. Obviously this is just one hurdle in a many series of hurdles that will go through the judicial system. This case will ultimately go to the supreme court I’m sure.”
The judge also ruled in favor of the Jefferson Parish Coroner's Office, which could have also lost funding Tuesday.
Again, it’s a $2 fee paid by people who are convicted in traffic and criminal offenses.
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