NEW YORK (JNS) — Just days after the start of 2020, New York Democratic Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein is pushing for changes to the state’s new bail-reform law, which allows for people charged with certain crimes to be released from jail prior to a trial without posting bail.
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Touted as one of the hallmarks of New York’s criminal-justice reform, the new bail law is facing a backlash, particularly in light of the rise in anti-Semitic attacks in New York City. Eichenstein represents the heavily Orthodox communities of Midwood and Borough Park in Brooklyn.
Under the current law, bail is eliminated for people facing misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies. The law also requires police to issue “desk appearance tickets,” instead of arresting many of those suspects.
Practically speaking, the concern is that those who allegedly commit nonviolent hate crimes would remain on the streets, putting the public at risk.
Critics point to the case of Tiffany Harris, who was arrested in late December after hitting three Orthodox women. She was released without bail because of the pending new law, and then went on to attack another woman and was arrested again.
Eichenstein’s proposed amendment would classify hate crimes as a “qualifying offense,” giving the courts leeway to affix bail or to keep in custody people charged with such incidents.
We live in absolutely crazy times. How is it possible this law passed?!!!
What is impossible to explain is how Tiffany Harris was considered non-violent. And if I recall correctly, there was a third offense that week. I seem to recall reading that the judge at the third arrest wanted her to be held, but that the mayor violated all known protocol, and contacted the judge directly to release her. It may have been to the street or to psychiatric evaluation, but not as a criminal suspect. This cheek turning is intolerable, and an indication of values that support crime, not safety. Di Blasio should not serve in public office with such a value system.
Now he wakes up sir where were u when it was debated
What is a “nonviolent hate crime” exactly?
Bail-Reform plan ! ! ! How horrible. We must push for a Bail-Orthodox plan, or better yet a Bail-Charedi plan.