New Jersey Advances Pilot Program to Enhance Pretrial Services
TRENTON, NJ—New legislation aimed at reforming New Jersey’s pretrial release system has moved forward. The Senate Judiciary Committee, chaired by Senator Brian Stack, together with Senator Vin Gopal, has sponsored a bill that initiates the “Pretrial Partnership for Community Support and Services Pilot Program.” This program will be tested in Monmouth, Union, Camden, and Cumberland Counties.
Opponents of pre-trial release highlight the recidivism rate and injustice of the system when criminals are released from jail without bail for violent crimes and crimes against children.
The bill, designated as S-301, stipulates that eligible defendants, as part of their release conditions, undergo biophysical or other appropriate assessments, followed by tailored treatment and services provided by approved pretrial community support providers.
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Senator Stack highlighted that despite the successes of the New Jersey Criminal Justice Reform Act in reducing pretrial detentions, released defendants often struggle without support services, facing issues like housing insecurity, unemployment, and substance abuse disorders. “Providing adequate services during the pretrial release period will improve defendants’ pretrial success and potentially reduce their sentence,” stated Senator Stack.
Drug addicts and mental health patients will receive state assistance after committing crimes
The proposed assessments for eligible defendants will cover a range of needs including substance use disorders, medical, mental health, behavioral health, employment readiness, and capacity for independence. Based on these assessments, community support providers will develop a personalized pretrial services case plan for each defendant.
Gopal says goal is to reduce criminal case loads in courts
Senator Gopal emphasized the benefits of this oversight during the pretrial period, noting that it could lead to reduced court caseloads and enhanced public safety. He also mentioned that creating individual plans for employment and sobriety could improve compliance with release conditions.
The bill received unanimous support in the committee, passing with an 11-0 vote, underscoring the bipartisan agreement on the importance of supporting defendants effectively during the pretrial phase.