Earlier today, Los Angeles County replaced its cash bail system with a new zero-bail policy. The policy is applicable to all except the most grievous offenses, changing the pre-trial procedure for individuals apprehended for misdemeanors and specific non-violent felonies. However, the policy is facing resistance as it's reported that 12 cities within L.A. County have sued to halt or delay the policy's implementation, according to KTLA.
The Pre-Arraignment Release Protocols (PARP) got the nod in July of 2023. These were crafted in response to criticisms that the cash bail system provided an undue advantage to the wealthy without significantly contributing to public safety. As per new policy, arrestees for non-violent or non-serious crimes shall be released at the arrest site or will be booked and then released after promising to appear for their arraignment. In contrast, high-intensity criminals are not eligible for the zero-bail policy.
Cities battling the zero-bail policy include Arcadia, Artesia, Covina, Downey, Glendora, Industry, Lakewood, La Verne, Palmdale, Santa Fe Springs, and Whittier. They assert a threat to public safety and a potential negative impact on local economy due to the policy. As documented by ABC7, leading supporters including L.A. County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and Presiding Judge Samantha P. Jessner, argue in favor of the reform, highlighting its potential for a fair justice system where financial capacity isn't the deciding factor for pre-trial detention.
Despite the policy's intent to level the playing field in the justice system, some, particularly in law enforcement, voice anxieties around the fallout of a zero-bail system. In a follow-up piece by ABC7, Sheriff Robert Luna shared concerns about victims losing faith in the justice process when perpetrators are let loose with minor penalties. Business owner Ronnie Salazar echoed this sentiment, expressing worries over an anticipated rise in theft and subsequent effects on commerce.
Although the zero-bail policy's potential benefits and drawbacks are hot topics of discussion, the cities involved remain in staunch opposition. Mayor Gary Boyer of Glendora stated, "Our big hope would be to overturn the zero bail policy or at least put a pause on it so that we have the ability to take a harder look at it and find out whether or not this is the right thing to do.” Further opposition might come from other city leaders in the near future.
Unfazed by the ongoing lawsuit and safety concerns, this zero-bail policy is now in effect across Los Angeles County.
