While I was on vacation, the county jail announced it would allow officers to book suspects for all criminal offenses. Previously, officers could only book for person to person misdemeanors, DUII's, and felonies. A few years ago, they'd only take person to person crimes. Auto theft, burglaries, and everything else were cite and release.
Why the change?
The county conducted a study. They found suspects have a higher chance of showing up for court if they spend time in jail.
Roughly, how much additional paperwork is this likely to create for you?
Posted by: DP | July 21, 2009 at 07:48 AM
It amazes me that it took a study to figure that out.
Posted by: Gertrude | July 21, 2009 at 08:42 AM
Fascinating. Is that still true if they post bail/bond? Does the amount of time spent in jail matter or is it the simple fact of being hauled and stuffed behind bars reinforces the seriousness of the matter? (Sorry, psych minor pops out every once in a while.)
Posted by: Peppypilotgirl | July 21, 2009 at 10:07 AM
@DP,
It is less paper work to book.
@Gertrude,
It does seem like common sense to me.
@PP,
That's the other problem. The county does not force them to pay a bond before being released, so they have no monetary incentive to show up for court.
Posted by: RD | July 21, 2009 at 11:15 AM