Bail in the Midwest
Bail in the Midwest explores the integral role of bail in the criminal justice system. With its roots dating back hundreds of years, bail allows individuals charged with a crime to be free pending trial, while simultaneously ensuring public safety. However, efforts to reform the bail system have escalated across the country in recent years, with calls from advocates to reduce or even eliminate the incarceration of individuals charged with a crime. With violent crime on the rise, it has become apparent that the new laws put into place are not always effective. In each episode, we discuss the many challenges involving criminal justice reform, as lawmakers seek viable solutions.
Bail in the Midwest is hosted by Shane Rolf, Executive Vice-President of the Kansas Bail Agents Association. David Stuckman, President of the Professional Bail Agents of the United States is Executive Producer of the podcast.
Bail in the Midwest
Bail Reform - What Does It Really Mean?
Join host Shane Rolf and his guests, Kansas House of Representatives members, Rep. Rep. John E. Barker of the 70th House District and Rep. Stephen Owens of the 74th House District for a lively and informative discussion. Bail reform is currently the hottest criminal justice topic. But it means different things to different people. Some call for the release of all defendants because they are collectively the victims of an oppressive criminal justice system. Others see bail reform as the chance to deny even the option of bail to certain defendants. Are either of these positions correct? How is bail reform, no matter how it is defined, impacting those who live in the Midwest?