TRENTON, NJ – Sen. Kristin Corrado is asking lawmakers to convene in Trenton to rectify perceived shortcomings in New Jersey’s bail reform. Reports from Law Enforcement and concerned citizens indicate dissatisfaction with the current system.
Sen. Corrado remarked, “Criminals are frequently released with minimal consequences due to bail reform.” She believes that legislative policies have inadvertently hindered Law Enforcement and judicial processes.
This sentiment echoes discussions Sen. Corrado held with police chiefs from Fairfield, Wayne, Cedar Grove, and Wyckoff. Chief Anthony G. Manna of the Fairfield Police Department shared his concerns, noting the challenges of maintaining officer morale amidst a justice system perceived as lenient.
In 2017, New Jersey introduced bail reform, replacing cash bail with a “risk assessment system”. The intent was to reduce undue incarceration for minor offenses. However, concerns have arisen about its effectiveness, with many believing it inadvertently benefits repeat offenders.
Cedar Grove Police Department Chief, John J. Kennedy, emphasized the need for reform, asserting that the rapid release of violent offenders contradicts the justice system’s principles.