How Overcrowded are US Jails?
LUBBOCK, TX – Lubbock, Texas is a city of a quarter million, and there are about twelve bail bond businesses operating here. National studies and the Justice Department have published reports suggesting that those defendants in jails in Lubbock and across the country who have money have far more options than those who do not. Those who have money can hire private attorneys and pay their full bail amounts to get out of jail almost at once. Those who have some money can often pay a bail bondsman 10% of the bail amount to get out of jail until their trial or hearing dates. Those who are indigent, however, tend to remain in prison for months or years awaiting their day in court. Studies have shown that defendants who get out on bail get smaller sentences, in many cases. This may be because they are able to maintain their jobs, seek help, and take other steps to convince judges that they will not re-offend. Lubbock is currently filled with defendants, many who cannot afford bail. Two decade
