During the 2020 presidential campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris supported a bail fund that aimed to help free individuals who were protesting on the ground in Minnesota. The fund’s website is still operational and accepting donations as of Monday night.
Harris encouraged people to donate to the fund, known as the Minnesota Freedom Fund, to help bail out individuals who were arrested during the Black Lives Matter protests. However, it has been reported that only a fraction of the more than $41 million raised actually went towards freeing rioters.
Recent reports have highlighted cases where individuals who were bailed out by the Minnesota Freedom Fund went on to commit serious crimes. For example, a man named George Howard was involved in a road rage incident on an Interstate 94 entrance ramp where he shot and killed another driver. Howard had been bailed out on domestic assault charges by the fund.
The Minnesota Freedom Fund has acknowledged its role in providing bail support to Howard and stated that they believe every individual arrested by law enforcement is innocent until proven guilty. The group also mentioned that they have implemented changes to their policies and procedures under new leadership.
It is important to note that the Minnesota Freedom Fund’s mission is to pay cash bail and immigration bonds for those who cannot afford it, with the belief that wealth should not determine who is detained and who is released.
This controversy surrounding the Minnesota Freedom Fund raises questions about the impact of bail funds and the potential risks involved in bailing out individuals charged with serious crimes. As the fund continues to operate and accept donations, it is essential for supporters and donors to be aware of the fund’s policies and the potential consequences of their actions.
While Vice President Kamala Harris has not commented on the recent developments regarding the Minnesota Freedom Fund, it is crucial for individuals and organizations to consider the implications of supporting such initiatives. In light of these events, it is important for all stakeholders to prioritize the safety and well-being of the community and to ensure that proper measures are in place to prevent further harm.
