Quote:
Originally Posted by Goodnight
There were in fact many who couldn't afford bail in the past and ended up waiting in jail especially for drug convictions. These people lost their jobs, usually low paying and ended up out of work with few options, that is a big hit and leads to other criminal behavior. It also leads to an easier conviction for prosecutors, some will agree to anything to get released. This was the entire reason for bail reform, two levels of justice.
Agree on pre-trial violators.
The law definitely needs to be adjusted for repeat petit larceny offenders, especially organized offenders.
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When I mention ability to be released, I meant the option to do so. I agree that the system didn't work because it had nothing to do with the charges and everything to do with personal resources. I can't imagine how much we spent housing people awaiting trial for petty crimes vs what we would actually have assessed or collected in fines. I would love to see actual speedy trial reform so that those who are in pre-trial detention receive priority in scheduling and processing of the case. If we've made the step to arrest someone, it should logically follow that we believe we have enough evidence to convict, and be able to package that up and present it within a reasonable amount of time.
The other issue with bail is that it lent itself too much to emotion. Bail and sentencing should be based on a strict points system, with the charge and aggravating or mitigating factors computed to a standard money or time figure.
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