Should A Person Be Denied A Pension For A Conviction?

[sbl_admin]

Louisiana law doesn't allow the pensions of public workers convicted of felony crimes, such as bribery or stealing, to be taken away or reduced — something state Sen. Arthur J. Lentini, R-Metairie, unsuccessfully tried to change during the last regular legislative session.

[Texasbelle]

My belief is that if you as a public official are convicted of a felony then that person should be sentenced as any normal person for their crime. I believe to take away the pension perhaps which would continue to feed the family is not the right answer. They should be fined and that fine can come from the pension. Also, if you have been convicted of a felony you should never ever be allowed to run for office again. Joe Shine, perfect example, his crime should never have been pardoned and he should never have been allowed to run. Funniest thing..people re-elected him. How stupid is that. Even though oftentimes they don't, the ones in public office should be held to a higher regard for the laws of society and should set the example.

[AnimeSpirit]

With regard to elected officials, I agree. Convicted felons shouldn't be allowed to run for office. I hear felons aren't allowed to vote, so why should they be allowed to run for office. However, I think taking their pension over a felony charge is double-jeopardy. If you are convicted of a crime, the judge decides your punishment. If you serve that punishment, you should be square with the house. Let them keep their pensions.

[joepole]

Convicted felons aren't allowed to run for public office in Louisiana:

http://senate.legis.state.la.us/Docu...ctive%20Office

[Isaac-Saxxon]

Originally Posted by joepole

Convicted felons aren't allowed to run for public office in Louisiana:

http://senate.legis.state.la.us/Docu...ctive%20Office

Well joe once again you have said it all with your post. Let them keep their pension and pay their fines.

[AnimeSpirit]

This issue doesn't only refer to elected officials. It refer to public workers. This article was in reference to a fire chief who was busted for a murder-for-hire scheme. He wasn't elected, but does he still get his pension? I think he should.

[rhertz]

Originally Posted by joepole

Convicted felons aren't allowed to run for public office in Louisiana:

Until pardoned first.. Then it's ok...

(Edited - Sorry, I should read from the bottom up. you folks are going too fast. It's hard to keep up nowadays)

[AnimeSpirit]

The validity of a the pardon differs by case. I'm with Joe on this one. If they are pardoned by the governor, then they are no longer convicted.