Mass Incarceration

Winnebago County court proceedings under scrutiny of “court watchers”


The Rev. Diane Tomlinson of Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Rockford is one of a dozen volunteers serving as a pretrial court watcher. She attended court Monday, Jan. 23, 2023, at the Winnebago County Justice Center in Rockford.

Spending a day in courtroom is often the final place anybody desires to be — particularly on the weekend.

However for individuals who need to see justice meted out equitably and effectively, courtroom B within the Winnebago County Justice Heart is strictly the place they select to be.

Since early January, defendants have been making their first courtroom look earlier than a decide and “courtroom watchers” on Saturdays.

The courtroom watching program, an initiative of the Illinois Network for Pretrial Justice, was created in anticipation of the Jan. 1 implementation of the Pretrial Fairness Act, a state regulation that does away with observe of money bail and curtails pretrial incarceration.





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Tha Bosslady

CREEDD (Creative Resilient Empowered Entrepreneurs and Diversified Dreamers) is a dynamic and purpose-driven platform that I founded with a deep commitment to empowering individuals facing adversity. It serves as a sanctuary where people can find solace, support, and valuable resources to navigate life's challenges while uncovering their true potential. My personal journey of enduring loss, tragedy, and life's complexities propelled me to establish CREEDD with a profound understanding of the human spirit's resilience. Having faced the heart-wrenching loss of my daughter to gun violence, my stepdaughter's survival after losing an eye to domestic violence, and witnessing my only biological son receiving a life sentence for a nonviolent drug crime, I am no stranger to life's darkest moments. In addition to my own struggles, I experienced health challenges that led me to undergo a tracheotomy. The most devastating blow came when my stepdaughter and granddaughter tragically lost their lives in a horrific car accident. Yet, it is precisely through these trials that I gained invaluable insights and unwavering determination to inspire others. CREEDD is more than a community; it's a lifeline for those seeking hope, inspiration, and empowerment. By sharing my personal story and the lessons learned, I aspire to ignite a spark of resilience within every member, encouraging them to rise above their challenges and embrace their unique journeys. At CREEDD, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling. It is through these stories that we connect with others who have endured similar struggles, creating an unbreakable bond of understanding and support. Our platform fosters an environment of empowerment, providing resources, educational content, and opportunities for personal growth. Our ultimate goal is to leave a lasting and positive impact on the lives of those who join CREEDD. We envision a ripple effect of change, where individuals find the courage to rewrite their narratives, rediscover their purpose, and lead lives filled with resilience and fulfillment. Together, we form a community of diverse dreamers, each on their unique path of transformation. At CREEDD, we embrace growth, uplift one another, and become beacons of hope. Join us on this transformative journey and witness the power of unity, compassion, and the unwavering pursuit of living life on purpose, no matter the adversities we face.

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