One year after the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the Pretrial Fairness Act, which put an end to the use of money bond across the state, advocates came together to celebrate the impact of this milestone and discuss the next steps in creating a more equitable legal system in Illinois.
The Illinois Network for Pretrial Justice, a coalition of nearly 50 organizations focused on eliminating cash bail and reducing pretrial incarceration, hosted a press conference outside the George N. Leighton Criminal Courthouse. Community members, local representatives, criminal justice advocates, faith leaders, and others gathered to reflect on the significance of the law.
The Pretrial Fairness Act made history by making Illinois the first state in the country to pass legislation that abolishes the practice of requiring cash bond for individuals facing criminal charges. The act has been instrumental in ensuring that people, especially those from Black and Brown communities, are not unfairly detained due to their inability to pay bond.
Reverend Violet Johnicker of Brooke Road United Methodist Church in Rockford emphasized the positive impact of the Pretrial Fairness Act, highlighting how it has reduced pretrial jailing, improved fairness in the legal process, and retained millions of dollars within impoverished communities across the state.
State senator Robert Peters, state representative Justin Slaughter, Cook County board president Toni Preckwinkle, and other notable figures were present at the press conference. They commended the legislation for its success in creating a more just and fair Illinois.
Critics of the law had expressed concerns that eliminating cash bail would lead to an increase in crime rates. However, Representative Slaughter dismissed these claims, citing a decrease in violent and property crime rates since the implementation of the Pretrial Fairness Act. He also highlighted the financial benefits of keeping millions of dollars in communities rather than spending them on money bonds.
The event also featured the story of Lavette Mayes, who, with the help of the Chicago Community Bond Fund, was able to pay her bond after spending time incarcerated and on electronic monitoring. Mayes shared her experience and emphasized the importance of supporting individuals navigating the legal system.
Looking ahead, state legislators aim to enhance other aspects of the legal system, such as strengthening the public defenders program and expanding community-based services for those awaiting trial. They seek to provide meaningful hearings, high-quality representation, and various support services to individuals and families involved in the legal process.
The passage of the Pretrial Fairness Act marks a significant step towards a more equitable justice system in Illinois. As advocates and lawmakers continue their efforts to reform the legal system, the ultimate goal is to ensure that every resident is treated with dignity, regardless of their economic status or race.
