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Since the implementation of New York's bail reform in 2020, which limited the circumstances under which individuals can be held in jail before trial, there has been a significant debate surrounding its impact. Advocates of the reform praised it for promoting fairness in the judicial system and reducing the jail population, particularly at Rikers Island. However, it has faced criticism from law enforcement and some residents who attribute a rise in crime to these changes. The reform allowed judges to release most defendants without bail while still permitting bail for violent felonies. Additionally, the discovery reform, which mandates earlier evidence sharing from prosecutors to defendants, aimed to improve transparency but has resulted in higher case dismissal rates, particularly in New York City. Critics, including Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD officials, argue that these reforms have compromised public safety, although studies indicate that the majority of released individuals do not commit further crimes while awaiting trial. As the state legislature reconvenes, there are ongoing discussions about potential adjustments to both bail and discovery reforms in response to the evolving landscape.
Love it or hate it, New York’s hotly debated bail reform law just turned 5 - Gothamist
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