Report: Prosecutor Explains Ray Rice Decision
By Cleve Bryan
MAYS LANDING, N.J., (CBS) -- Despite criticism by some that Ray Rice should have faced a stronger punishment, Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain is defending the decision to place Rice in a pre-trial intervention program that keeps him from jail.
Speaking to the Press of Atlantic City McClain says, "The decision was made after careful consideration of the law, careful consideration of the facts, hearing the voice of the victim and considering all the parameters."
McClain says Rice did not receive star treatment.
"Just like it is not just or fair to go easier on somebody because of who they are, neither is it fair or just to go heavier on somebody because of who they are. I felt, and still feel, this disposition was appropriate," McClain told Press reporter Lynda Cohen.
Claudia Ratzlaff, who oversees the Atlantic County Women's Center, says the hotline 1 (800) 286-4184 receives about 4,000 domestic violence calls per year.
Based on similar situations she's seen over the years she isn't surprised someone like Rice received pre-trial intervention.
"Typically they'll go through family court or they'll go through municipal court and they'll go through a process. There will be a restraining order. There's not usually jail time," says Ratzlaff.
She isn't questioning McClain's application of the law but was extremely disappointed by the NFL's initial suspension of only 2 games for Ray Rice.
"As a woman who enjoys sports, I thought it was awful, it was horrendous. What a terrible message," says Ratzlaff.
She says now is the time for the NFL to step up to condemn domestic violence.
"Very similar to their pink campaign, our color is purple, come out with a purple campaign because men are going to change this problem."
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