Community court in Rome sees early results, mayor says
The city of Rome has launched its Community Court Program, and Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan said it's already seeing '...encouraging early results.'
The court was launched as part of a broader initiative to address low-level offenses through restorative justice and wraparound services.
'Our goal with Community Court has always been to reduce recidivism by addressing the root causes of behavior and offering people a way out of the system,' Lanigan said in a statement. 'We are beginning to see that approach take hold. Helping individuals avoid future court appearances through education, rehabilitation, and service is a win for our city.'
According to the statement from the mayor's office, several individuals charged with violations have already been connected with vital services, including adult education programs, rehabilitation services, and stable housing opportunities. In addition, many offenders have been sentenced to community service.
"The Rome Community Court represents an efficient, thoughtful approach to handling low-level offenses, leading to better case outcomes, reducing recidivism, and promoting public safety,' Rome City Court Judge Stephanie Viscelli said in a statement. 'This innovative court ensures that justice-involved individuals take a more active role in their legal proceedings and proactively address the root causes of any ongoing challenges, aligning with Chief Judge Rowan Wilson's vision of courts as problem-solvers. This initiative was made possible through a collaborative partnership with state and local organizations.'
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Earlier this year, Lanigan and the Rome Common Council co-sponsored legislation to support this approach by modifying the city's general penalty provisions. The change removed mandatory minimum fines and surcharges, giving Rome City Court judges greater discretion to apply individualized, service-based sentences.
Additionally, Rome passed its first update in 20 years to the Public Nuisance Law.
The city government thanked Rome City Court and many local service providers who have contributed to the Community Court Program. The city also welcomes additional organizations interested in hosting or supervising community service opportunities.
Organizations interested in partnering for community service should contact Assistant Corporation Counsel Jim Rizzo at 315-339-7668 or by email at jrizzo@romecitygov.com
'We're just getting started,' Lanigan said in a statement. 'But the results so far show that this approach works. Together, we're not just enforcing the law — we're helping people build better lives and stronger neighborhoods.'
This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Community court in Rome sees early results
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