Law enforcement veteran Michael Letts discusses the move by the state of Illinois, and how it could open a door for potential re-offenders.
The Illinois Supreme Court just paved the way for the state to end cash bail, with the law set to be implemented in mid-September. This is the first state in the nation to take such a step; and while some are hailing it as a victory against economic discrimination, others see it as an open invitation for re-offenders.
The measure was initially presented as an effort to eliminate discrimination between those who can afford bond/bail and those who cannot. However, this may inadvertently lead to immediate repatriation of criminals back on the streets, often before law enforcement officers can complete their shifts. With no financial deterrent, violent crime may escalate dramatically, putting entire communities at risk.
What’s worse, the possibility of revenge strikes against law enforcement officers and their families is significantly increased as criminals return to the streets more rapidly. This could very well lead to officers questioning the effectiveness of their roles, leading to an exodus from the profession.
By allowing criminals to evade conviction and retain their voting rights, are we inadvertently influencing the political landscape?
Joining us now to discuss this further is Michael Letts, a law enforcement veteran with over 30 years of experience under his belt. He is Founder, President and CEO of InVest USA, an organization that provides bulletproof vests to police officers through various charitable groups and sponsorships. Letts brings firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the criminal justice system to this conversation, offering valuable insights into the potential repercussions of ending cash bail.
Q&A:
- What would make Illinois give doing away with cash bail in the first place? Did they see it as an obstacle of some kind, or something else?
- Supreme Court Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis noted that the Constitution “does not mandate that monetary bail is the only means to ensure criminal defendants appear for trials or the only means to protect the public.” What’s your take on this?
- How can this endanger police officers that are working in Illinois? Could this take such effect that many will end up leaving their jobs, if they haven’t already?
- Could other states potentially pick up on doing away with cash bail? Or will many see this as a mistake on Illinois’ part?
- What will this do for the criminal element in Illinois, you think? Could things be potentially worse in just over a year’s time? Maybe even less than that?
- Is there anything you want to say to the police officers of Illinois?
- You’re the creator of InVest USA, an organization that provides bulletproof vests to police officers through various charitable groups and sponsorships. Tell us more about that, and why support for fellow officers is so important right now.
- Tell us more about RestoringJustice.US, the new website where you help out citizens in need surrounding law matters.
- Where can we learn more about InVest USA, Restoring Justice and whatever else you’re working on?
You can visit our official InVest USA website, and learn more on the official Invest USA Twitter account. You can also learn about our new initiative at RestoringJustice.US.
About Michael Letts:
Michael Letts is the Founder, President, and CEO of InVest USA, a national grassroots non-profit organization that is helping hundreds of communities provide thousands of bulletproof vests for their police forces through educational, public relations, sponsorship, and fundraising programs. He also has over 30 years of law enforcement experience under his belt, hence his pro-police stance for his brothers and sisters in blue. Those interested in learning more about Letts can visit his official website here.
CONTACT: Jerry McGlothlin at: geraldmcg@outlook.com or 919-437-0001.
