To the Editor: The David Renz case clearly demonstrates the need to strengthen our laws so a brutal act like this can be prevented from happening again. As we are all aware systematic failures in our justice system were exposed following the heinous acts committed by David Renz on March 14 in Clay. I assure you, as an Assembly member I am committed to ensuring the safety of our families. That’s why I introduced legislation in the Assembly that will hopefully be the first step in this process. David Renz was released from jail on home confinement awaiting trial on child pornography charges when he committed these atrocities. Like Bill Cregg, the heroic first responder that night, I strongly believe that David Renz would not have been free had the judge or district attorney been able to view his concealed juvenile record of sexually based offenses. The bill I’ve introduced would allow prosecutors access to juvenile records when a defendant is charged with a sex offense. This will give judges and district attorneys a clear picture of the perpetrator’s history and allow them to determine if a pattern exists. David Renz had committed atrocities in the past, and he shouldn’t have been free to commit them again. The measure I introduced would help ensure people like him stay behind bars. State Senator John DeFrancisco has introduced this legislation in the Senate as well, and I am hopeful that it will become law before the legislative session closes next month. But our work will not be done with just this bill. It is only the first step in ensuring that a dangerous criminal is never again able to slip through the cracks and threaten our community. My thoughts and prayers go out to Lori Bresnahan and her daughter’s family. I have spoken to Mr. Cregg, and I want to make it clear to both him and the families of Central New York: Your pleas for a better criminal justice system do not fall on deaf ears. The police, parole officers, judges and district attorneys that protect us from violent offenders need every tool available to adequately do their jobs. Keeping dangerous criminals off the streets to ensure the safety of our families has always been, and will continue to be one of my top priorities. Sincerely,
Al Stirpe
Member of Assembly