Request that a federal mandate require law enforcement agencies and assigned public defenders to notify immediate family members of charges and status of intake prisoners within 24 hours of arrest. Many people arrested have children and spouses and have been denied communication resulting in unnecessary worry and hardship for those families involved. It is our right to not be assumed guilty of a crime until due process has run its course. In order for someone to seek fair counsel it is essential to obtain financial assistance, communication with potential defense counsel and time management; all which require the personal attention of immediate family members. These rights are stipulated under civil and criminal law but are not enforced at the state and local law enforcement levels.



