Law enforcement

Law enforcement groups petition Clinton, Trump

Law enforcement organizations are calling on presidential candidates — particularly Donald Trump — to endorse an overhaul of the criminal justice system that can help reduce crime and improve relations between police and the communities they serve.

"We believe there is an urgent need for the next Administration to help promote the public safety of this country, reduce recidivism, and reform sentencing policies," said an open letter to the candidates from representatives of nationwide police chief and prosecutor organizations.

The groups said that overly harsh drug sentencing laws have swelled prison populations to the point where other aspects of law enforcement are being undercut.