The Springfield News-Leader reports that Greene County justice officials are considering repealing a four-year-old policy that has become known as book-and-release. The policy, enacted in 2005, allows some suspects to be booked and then released pending application of warrants. Critics of the program say that outstanding warrants have skyrocketed and criminals are released before the ink can dry on their arrest reports. Book-and-release has also been blamed for all but eliminating criminals' fear of jail time.
Under the new proposal, the jail would discontinue its book-and-release policy, and begin using a probable cause bond schedule. Under the schedule, suspects arrested for certain crimes are automatically eligible for a set bond amount, even though no charges are filed. If the prisoner chooses, he or she can contact family or a bondsman and post bail.
Discussing the proposal, Judge Dan Conklin said that bondsmen provide needed accountability -- ensuring the majority of their customers meet court dates and don't abscond --that outweighs other concerns. "The bond system is not perfect," he said. "It's not without its warts; there are opportunities for mischief. But they provide a service to the community at no cost for taxpayers."
The proposed changes will undergo further discussion.
Friday, February 20, 2009
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