Akron Beacon Journal, 17May1999-2

AKRON BEACON JOURNAL

Monday, May 17, 1999
Section: METRO
Edition: 1 STAR
Page: A6\
Beacon Journal analysis of Summit County Clerk's data
Memo: MEMO: JUSTICE FOR ALL? / NOTE: Also see other related stories

Illustration: GRAPHIC: Akron Beacon Journal graphic

Critics say recent changing trends suggest overindictment by former Summit County Prosecutor Maureen O'Connor. She says she charged every criminal act the law allowed, and no more.

MULIPLE-COUNT INDICTMENTS

A long-term increase in percentage of multiple-count indictments accelerated during the O'Connor years.

1986 - 50.1

1987 - 52.9

1988 - 51.6

1989 - 50.7

1990 - 55.2

1991 - 54.1

1992 - 55.1

1993 - 55.0

1994 - 58.3

1995 - 56.9

1996 - 57.7

1997 - 61.5

1998 - 62.9

FORGERY

While Akron arrests for forgery were down, indictments were up substantially during the O'Connor era.

1986-88 - 371

1989-91 - 408

1992-94 - 508

1995-97 - 683

CONSPIRACY

Conspiracy indictments increased dramatically under O'Connor.

1986-88 - 15

1989-91 - 60

1992-94 - 53

1995-97 - 122

TAMPERING WITH EVIDENCE

Labeled a bargaining chip by critics, tampering indictments increased nearly 250 percent in the O'Connor era.

1986-88 - 22

1989-91 - 46

1992-94 - 78

1995-97 - 272

RICO

Indictments for racketeering, also known as engaging in corrupt activities, increased 90 percent during the O'Connor years.

1986-88 - 18

1989-91 - 48

1992-94 - 68

1995-97 - 129