Will crime rise without cash bail in Illinois?

On July 18, 2023, the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the SAFE-T-Act, a state law ending cash bail for people awaiting trial on criminal charges. Republicans claimed the law will greatly increase crime. But the Democratic proponents say the law disproportionately affected low-income and minority groups. Judges can still hold a person in jail if they pose a danger or are likely to flee. Today, we discuss why the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the SAFE T-Act and how it may affect crime rates in the future.

Guests:

Alex Degman
Statehouse reporter, Illinois Public Radio stations

Sharone Mitchell
Cook County Chief Public Defender