Both Sides Rally Over Bail Reform
It was described as a very emotional day at the State Capitol on Tuesday, February 4, as two separate rallies took place, both concerned with the Bail Reform laws that took place on January 1. One group, looking to repeal the controversial law change gathered in one part of the building, while those supporting the change grouped together outside the Senate chamber.
Following the Assembly rally, 107th district Assemblyman Jake Ashby put out the following press release:
Rensselaer County DA Mary Pat Donnelly, Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey J. Murphy and Columbia County Sheriff David Bartlett were among those at a rally held at the State Capitol calling for the repeal of New York’s bail reform law. Mr. Ashby unveiled legislation last month, A.8855, which would repeal the bail reform law.
“Many people in my assembly district, crime victims, law enforcement and professionals in the criminal justice system are calling for the repeal of bail reform,” said Ashby. “The law as it stands allows unrepentant, dangerous criminals immediately back into our communities, placing law enforcement, our first responders and the public at risk. We must repeal the mess that exists now and approach this the right way, with input from all involved parties, and ensure their concerns are being considered.”
“One month into 2020 we are seeing the reality of this criminal justice reform legislation. The news is reporting daily stories of repeat offenders and crimes of opportunity. Now is the time for us to come to the table and figure out how to get this right,” said Rensselaer County District Attorney Mary Pat Donnelly. “If done correctly, criminal justice reform can protect the rights of the accused and maintain public safety for all New Yorkers. That is our goal.”
“I was concerned about bail reform and what it would bring. We feared that it would bring danger to the communities, and that’s exactly what has happened,” said Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey J. Murphy. “There are literally too many cases to keep track of, though we’re certainly trying. We simply want safe communities and that’s the cornerstone of our careers. I appreciate everyone asking us to come here today … We simply ask that we can sit down with the majority leaders and we can come up with a solution that’s fair—fair to the defendants and fair to the public.”
While not putting out any official release, those who gathered outside the Senate chambers argued that bail reform is necessary, and some stated they feel the new law does not go far enough.