Mitch Smith

New York Times

Tuesday, Jul 18, 2023

Illinois Supreme Court Upholds Measure Designed to End Cash Bail

• The Illinois Supreme Court has upheld a law signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker that eliminates cash bail in the state.
• Advocates argue that ending cash bail will prevent cases like Lavette Mayes, who was charged with aggravated battery, had bail set at $250,000, and waited one year in jail for trial.
• Law enforcement groups and opponents warn that the law could result in increased crime, recidivism, dysfunction in the criminal justice system, and danger to both police officers and the communities they serve.