Judiciary chairman: Melissa’s Bill will come up for vote

Blodgett, Cousins say new 'Melissa's Law' doesn't go far enough

Local law-enforcement officials Thursday expressed mixed opinions of a new crime bill, mostly supporting a so-called three-strikes provision that bars parole for repeat violent offenders, but advocating further reforms.

"It's not a true crime bill," Essex County District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett said Thursday. "The three-strikes provision I'm very glad was passed, but there is very much more that needs to be done in order to call it a true crime bill."

Gov. Deval Patrick signed the crime bill in a private ceremony Thursday morning, according to the Associated Press.

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