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 in the Midwest, Michael Woody, North Carolina Chairman, National Association of Bail Agents
Join host Shane Rolf and guest Michael Woody, Owner of 828 Bail Bonds. Mr. Woody serves as the North Carolina Chairman of the National Association of Bail Agents, in addition to being a board member of the North Carolina Bail Agents Association. They discuss the brutal murder of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska in Charlotte -- a crime committed by a man with at least 14 prior arrests who had been released on a simple promise to appear in court. The case exposed the dangers of North Carolina’s bail reform policies and led to the passage of “Iryna’s Law,” ending cashless bail for violent repeat offenders. Mr. Woody also recently testified before the U.S. House Committee on the Judiciary during a field hearing in North Carolina. In addition, he talked about his relief efforts to aid victims of Hurricane Helene.