SACRAMENTO – Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) responds to Senate Democrats decision to push forward Senate Bill 262 , a bill which would eliminate bail for a majority of criminal offenses. California voters recently rejected Proposition 25, a no-money bail system just over 5 months ago. SB 262 would propel a $0 bail system despite the recent rejection by voters and significant warnings from law enforcement of the safety risk to the community.
“At a time when we have seen a significant increase in violent crimes such as homicide and domestic violence, why would democrats support legislation that puts the safety of our communities at greater risk?” said Senator Grove “Time and time again, we see criminals released back into the community under policies like these, only to reoffend, sometimes within minutes of being released.”
Kern County District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer and Kern County Sheriff Donny Youngblood, have previously voiced their concerns on zero-bail policies that have created a “catch-and-release” system for violent and dangerous criminals.
Community leaders are also speaking out in concern for the consequences of a zero-bail system which will allow violent criminal to be released back on the streets.
“I understand and wholeheartedly believe in the premise that all people are innocent until proven guilty,” said Pastor Jordan of Christ First Ministries. “With that said, I also believe there must be a set of bail guidelines for violent and dangerous crimes so that the safety of our community is not put in jeopardy.”
SB 262 passed off the Senate Floor along party lines, 30-9 and will be heard next in the State Assembly.
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Senator Shannon Grove represents California's 16th Senate District which encompasses large portions of Kern, Tulare and San Bernardino counties and including the cities of Bakersfield, Barstow, California City, Exeter, Frazier Mountain, Joshua Tree, Mojave, Needles, Ridgecrest, Rosamond, Taft, Tehachapi, Twentynine Palms, Tulare, Visalia, Yucca Valley and portions of the Kern River Valley. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter.
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