Changes to New York State’s bail laws have led to a significantly larger population of those funneled into programs designed to keep people out of jail.
Underfunded ‘supervised release’ programs in New York are struggling to keep up, according to the Times Union. They analyzed data, which shows the system most-stressed when property theft crimes are involved.
Half of those released under supervision following a non-violent theft charge were rearrested on new charges. How often is that happening?
The Times Union reports upwards of 60% of the time outside of New York City. The data also shows that around a one-third of cases involve a bench warrant for failure to appear to court appearances.
The programs are funded by an annual budget of approximately $116 million. A number that hasn’t seen a dramatic increase, despite processing far more people since bail reform went into effect.
Governor Kathy Hochul and Democratic lawmakers have given judges more discretion to set bail or hold individuals in custody. However, that hasn’t had any impact on the outcome.
MORE: Upstate’s lack of services plays a big role in outcomes (Times Union)
There are countless examples around the state of issues related to quick release of those taken into custody on low-level crimes.
First, there is the lack of funding to support supervised release. Second, there is the lack of sufficient addiction or mental health services to individuals outside the criminal justice system.
In short, the stress of the entire system hangs in the balance with probation workers.
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