Bail Reform

News March 14

Judges have drastically cut back on bail and jail in criminal cases, a new study shows. And defendants are still showing up in court.

By Eli Hager

Analysis August 30, 2018

The first state to abolish cash bail. Why are proponents so unhappy?

By Abbie VanSickle

News August 6, 2018

Cory Booker and Sherrod Brown, both Democrats, want answers from the insurance industry.

By Joseph Neff

Feature July 13, 2018

But a haven for bail bondsmen is getting less friendly.

By Joseph Neff

Commentary July 13, 2018

Post-Ferguson, St. Louis County courts initiate reforms, but bail hasn’t yet gone away.

By Eddie Roth

Feature July 13

A unique database offered an unprecedented look at the lucrative business.

By Joseph Neff

Life Inside August 31, 2017

A judge explains how he decides whether to release a defendant before trial without bail — and how it can go bad.

By Ronald Kessler

Life Inside June 1, 2017

A small business owner fights back against changes in the bail industry.

By Chris Blaylock as told to Alysia Santo

Crime on the Ballot October 17, 2016

Four important ballot measures you probably haven’t heard of.

By Beth Schwartzapfel

News August 23, 2016

They’re using charity to set poor defendants free.

By Alysia Santo