In 2023, Illinois stopped using cash bail for people accused of crimes, and now things seem better, with more people showing up for court, court operations running smoothly, and money saved that could go towards helping the community.
Illinois’s Removal of Cash Bail Shows Positive Results – Says Chief Judge Andrew Gleeson
According to the published article by Audacy, in the fall of 2023, Illinois made a big change to its criminal justice system by getting rid of cash bail for people accused of crimes. Chief Judge Andrew Gleeson from the 20th Judicial Circuit said this was a major change after 40 years of the old system. A few months later, Gleeson says this change is working well and improving things.
At first, people worried that those released without paying bail wouldn’t return for their court dates. But Gleeson says the data shows that most people are showing up for court. The new system required a lot of adjustments, including a special courtroom and judge, and teamwork among clerks, public defenders, and state attorneys. Even with these big changes, Gleeson says everything is running smoothly.
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150 People Released Daily: Illinois’ Cash Bail Elimination Yields Positive Results in Court Appearance and Reduced Jail Population – Check It Out! (PHOTO: Chicago Sun-Times)
Illinois‘s Cash Bail Elimination Leads to Reduced Jail Population and Potential Funding for Community Services
Furthermore, the new system has saved money by keeping about 150 fewer people in jail daily. This means taxpayers aren’t paying as much to house inmates. People who aren’t a big risk to society can stay out of jail, keep working, and support their families. Gleeson mentioned that the money saved could be used for more sheriff’s deputies or mental health services, showing that this change is good for the community.
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