Bail reform has been a hot topic in Harris County for months. And, with the county about to release 1,000 non-violent criminals from jail, some bail amounts now being given out by county judges are coming under the microscope.
According to reports, $300, $500 and $10 bonds have been issued this week to defendants, some of whom have violent criminal histories. This doesn't sit well with Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Jack Cagle.
"You can engage in domestic violence, get out and get back to the person that you just victimized for ten bucks, or three hundred bucks? What message are we sending to those who are being victimized," Cagle asked in an interview with KTRH News. "What expectation do they have that they can be protected? Why even outcry for help when the person that just hurt them can get back into that home?"
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo says the release of these 1,000 inmates that she has signed off on is justified because it's being done to help stop the spread of COVID-19.