Connecticut Wants Big Changes to Bail Bondsmen System

CONNECTICUT - Connecticut legislators held a hearing on a bill that would change the bail bond system, which is under fire after recent kickback scandals. The new bill would require bondsmen to undergo testing and routine training. The bill also would give the public safety commissioner the power to revoke or suspend licenses in the event of misconduct. Governor M. Jodi Rell supports the bill.

New Study About Crimes Committed on Bail

UNITED KINGDOM - Information obtained by the UK media shows that in 462 murder cases last year, 79 suspects were let out on remand over other crimes. The information suggests that nearly one in five murder suspects in Britain last year appeared to commit the offense while out on bail. The Shadow Justice Secretary already has called for tighter bail laws in light of the information. In Avon and Somerset counties, almost half of all those charged with murder in 2007 were out on bail when the crime occurred.

Bail For Sexual Crimes Questioned

ST. GEORGE, UT - Alleged rapist Juan Carlos Jimenez was recently granted bail, even though he poses a potential flight risk. His bail was even reduced from $40,000 to $25,000, raising questions in the community about bail set for sex criminals. Utah’s sex crimes tend to have low bail amounts set and the state registry of sex criminals is largely self-reporting, leading many to accuse Utah of being soft on sex crimes. Some are calling for a review of the state bail schedule when it comes to sexual crimes.

Man Uses Violent Means to Avoid Bondsman

TAFT, CA - Preston Robbins missed a court hearing and was being sought by a bail bond agent. According to Taft police, Robbins was so eager to avoid the bail agent that he stabbed himself in the neck, sustaining minor injuries. Robbins was supposed to show up in court to face a charge of unlawfully starting a fire.