Prop 102
PROPOSITION 102 would limit most people’s ability to get out of jail without posting a bond backed by cash or collateral.
Under Prop 102, state law would limit pretrial service programs to nonviolent, first-time misdemeanor defendants. All other misdemeanor defendants would have to post bail, and release of felony suspects on bail still would be the decision of a judge.
The proponents say this measure would give all defendants the incentive to appear for trial. But in reality, this measure, backed by bail bondsmen, is just a way to drive more business their way.
Opponents rightly point out that some poor suspects who cannot afford bail, even if they are arrested for a second misdemeanor, would have to remain in jail. Meanwhile, people of more means would be able to gain their release.
Legislative Council researchers say Prop 102 would increase local jail costs statewide by about $2.8 million a year, offset by a slight reduction in spending on pretrial release programs. Jail overcrowding is already a problem in many jurisdictions, and Prop 102 would exacerbate that problem.
Vote NO on Proposition 102.
1 comment:
If people don't want to go to jail they shouldn't do the crime! If they are "poor" and can't afford montary bail and their crime is one that they can't be released on the taxpayer's dime, the judge still can release the person on their own recognizance. Too many career criminals have learned the true nature of pretrial release programs - they don't supervise you, don't care where you live or what you are doing as long as they can maintain their huge budget and jobs.
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