ACLU of Kansas files lawsuit challenging linkage of probation to restitution payments

ACLU of Kansas files lawsuit challenging linkage of probation to restitution payments

TOPEKA — The American Civil Liberties of Kansas filed a federal lawsuit Thursday challenging decisions of judges in Johnson County District Court to order probation based on whether a defendant can pay restitution to victims. ACLU of Kansas and the…

Lawsuit claims probation wrongly extended based on ability to pay restitution

A new lawsuit filed in federal court on Thursday challenges a state law that allows judges to  extend probation beyond an established ceiling if someone is unable to pay restitution. The lawsuit, brought by the American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas on behalf of four plaintiffs, was lodged against Attorney General Kris Kobach as well as six current and former Johnson County judges. The lawsuit says the judges have relied on the language in Kan…