‘Opening new jails is a down payment ensuring we stay stuck in our old ways. That’s not a price we should be willing to pay.’
Are defendants in Brooklyn getting a fairer shake thanks to the reforms already undertaken?
The sponsor of an Assembly measure that would sharply constrain the use of financial bail says she is optimistic her proposal will become law now that Democrats control the State Senate.
‘Our recommended changes will aim to advance meaningful and substantive remedies that no mainstream politician will currently support. Not because they don’t make sense but because they are too politically charged.’
‘We believe it is critical for the Civic Engagement Commission to explicitly address the political incorporation of formerly incarcerated people in New York City.’
Reforms to the bail system, evidence-sharing rules and speedy-trial requirements are at the top of the reform agenda—and will shape the city’s ‘close Rikers’ efforts as well.
Under normal circumstances, 2019 would be a quiet year in city politics. But circumstances are not normal.
From courtrooms to prisons, and from pot to parole, the four gubernatorial candidates stake out distinct positions on top criminal justice policy issues.
While many Bronx politicians oppose the specific site the mayor has targeted for a new facility to partly replace Rikers Island, a vocal coalition of protesters is calling for an end to jails and policing as we know it.
… though not as much as they would have if there had been a primary race.