Bail in the Midwest
Bail in the Midwest explores the integral role of bail in the criminal justice system. With its roots dating back hundreds of years, bail allows individuals charged with a crime to be free pending trial, while simultaneously ensuring public safety. However, efforts to reform the bail system have escalated across the country in recent years, with calls from advocates to reduce or even eliminate the incarceration of individuals charged with a crime. With violent crime on the rise, it has become apparent that the new laws put into place are not always effective. In each episode, we discuss the many challenges involving criminal justice reform, as lawmakers seek viable solutions.
Bail in the Midwest
Jeff Reisig, District Attorney, Yolo County, California
Join host Shane Rolf and his guest, Jeff Reisig, the district attorney for Yolo County, California. They discuss a 2022 study his office conducted that revealed that Yolo County’s zero bail policy had resulted in an increase of 163 percent in total crime and more than a 200 percent spike in violent crime. Mr. Reisig shares his views on the current state of criminal justice and our court systems, and the measures that can be taken to bolster public safety.