More Michigan felon records erased

The Detriot News reports:

More than 1,100 Michigan ex-cons had their criminal records erased in the first six months of this year, an almost 60 percent increase that coincided with heightened scrutiny of school and health employees statewide.

With their records expunged by judges, former criminals escape detection of background checks that might have banned them from sensitive jobs or made it harder for them to find work. They also can legally tell potential employers that they have no convictions.

In the first six months of 2006, 1,124 records were erased from the 1,258 ex-cons who applied -- about a 60 percent increase from the 708 ex-cons who had their records erased in the first six months of 2005 out of 939 who applied.

The growing practice amplifies the divide between those who believe that former convicts deserve a chance at redemption and those who want access to the criminal histories of educators, coaches, maids, nannies, neighbors, health care workers, other employees -- or virtually anyone else.

"It's a fine line. Should an applicant have the right to a clean start? But shouldn't an employer have the right to protect its business, its assets and the general public?" said Kevin Klimas, president and founder of Clarifacts, a Phoenix-based employment screening firm. "There is an argument on both sides of the fence."

Michigan.