A new bail policy has been implemented in Los Angeles, and already it’s causing crime victims to lose trust in the “criminal justice system.”
The policy first was used during COVID, and then restored.
“Our communities have not been shy about telling us how nervous they are about this change,” Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna told the county board of supervisors last week.
“Crime victims who see offenders immediately released from custody are left with little confidence in the criminal justice system. I understand the need to respect the constitutional rights of arrestees, but zero-bail can demoralize deputies and police officers who work hard to make arrests, only to watch the offender walk away with a citation as the victim looks on in disbelief.”
Cash bail still is an option for offenders accused of assault, stalking, domestic battery and violating protective orders.
And other situations, involving allegations of human trafficking, battery on a peace officer and sex with a minor will require a judicial review.
The report explained, “However, most individuals arrested for most offenses will either be cited and released at the site of their arrest, or booked and released at the law enforcement office with orders to appear in court for arraignment on a set date.”
A second offense after a release is supposed to require an appearance before a judge, but the report noted law enforcement officials doubt that’s practical, given the status of law enforcement infrastructure in the county.
“You can get arrested in Pomona for a felony, you’re caught and released, cited out, and get arrested in Pacoima, and you’d be out again, because there’s no method of knowing who has been cited where,” LA Sheriff Alex Villaneuva told the publication.
A dozen of the municipalities in the county already have sued to halt the scheme, with Whittier Mayor Joe Vinatieri charging it’s just another plan “that leaves us less safe.”
Studies about whether the change helps reduce rearrests are in conflict.
This article was originally published by the WND News Center.
This post originally appeared on WND News Center.