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In a troubling development in Suffolk County, NY, District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced the release without bail of two defendants charged with serious felonies, despite their status as flight risks.
1. **Weapons Possession Case:**
- A Brentwood man, already out on bail for a prior illegal firearm charge in Brooklyn, was arrested for possessing a loaded handgun and linked to multiple shootings. The District Attorney sought a $250,000 cash bail, highlighting the defendant's potential to flee. However, Judge John B. Zollo released him without any monetary conditions, despite the severe nature of the charges.
2. **Child Sexual Abuse Case:**
- An Orange County father was arrested and charged with Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child in the First Degree for allegedly abusing his daughter over several months. The District Attorney requested substantial bail, given the seriousness of the charges and the defendant's lack of ties to Suffolk County. Nonetheless, Judge Zollo released him on his own recognizance without any security, describing him as a significant flight risk.
DA Tierney criticized the 2019 bail reform measures that have limited the ability to consider public safety in pre-trial release decisions and called for legislative changes to prevent potential harm to the community.
**Note:** Criminal complaints and indictments are merely accusations; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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