The conversation surrounding bail reform really started when Darrel Brooks ran a vehicle through the Waukesha Christmas Parade, but it has also been happening on a local level.
Just this past week, there was a case that has sparked a conversation.
Taliyah N. Jackson was arrested for stealing from Taco Bell in Manitowoc, and for forging an invoice from an attorney. Jackson also has two other open cases in Manitowoc County, one where she is charged with Armed Robbery as Party to the Crime, and another where she was charged with Theft of Movable Property Totaling less than $2,500.
Despite her history of theft, Jackson was issued a $100 cash bail for the Taco Bell theft, and $500 for the fraud case.
While on WOMT’s Be My Guest program, Manitowoc County District Attorney Jacalyn LaBre reminded the listeners of how bail is set.
“We make our recommendation based on what we feel is appropriate. Obviously the Defense is going to make their recommendation on what they think is appropriate. Generally that’s lower than what we do. It’s up to the Court Commissioner or the Judge to set the Bail. They have to look at considerations such as has the person missed court before, do they have a prior record, are they a danger to the community, those types of things.”
LaBre’s Assistant DA, Anthony Lambrecht reiterated that statement before saying the victims of a crime can be involved in the bail process “…by either attending the bail hearing or contacting our office to make sure their voice is heard as well.”
Wisconsin legislators have introduced a measure to change the bail system. Representative Scott Fitzgerald and Senator Ron Johnson’s bill looks to “bring transparency to the bail system and help people understand how often violent offenders are released.”
