Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard has called for major criminal justice reforms in the wake of a deadly Christmas Eve shooting that left a doctor dead and others wounded, according to various media outlets. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Malik Webb, is facing a slew of 19 charges after authorities say he opened fire on people who attempted to help him. ClickOnDetroit reported that the incident involved a violent carjacking spree.
The sheriff contrasted the Christmas spirit with the grim events, stating to media outlets, "Had they not made the choice to let him out he wouldn’t be in a position to shoot people on Christmas Eve," calling into question the decision to grant Webb parole in July before the end of his sentence for previous weapon offenses. Found with more than 30 shell casings at the scene, Webb's alleged spree followed a party he had attended in the Rochester area earlier that day, as MidMichiganNow detailed in their coverage.
During a press briefing, Sheriff Bouchard emphasized the need for a reevaluation of current protocols, noting, "People who are nonviolent shouldn’t be in prison or jail I agree 100 percent but people who have a violent history or commit a violent act or carrying or using a weapon illegally need serious penalties," as MidMichiganNow reported. Bouchard expressed frustration with the criminal justice system, which he believes has "run off the rails again," with repeated calls for changes that must be made for public safety.
Webb, who had a known criminal record in Genesee County including several weapon charges and an armed robbery at the age of 17, represents a case that has struck a chord with the community and law enforcement leaders. Following the tragic event, Bouchard plans to head to Lansing to speak with lawmakers about parole decisions and public safety, as outlined in his comments to CBS News Detroit.
