Trump Takes Aim at Cashless Bail Policies
A former top detective in Chicago spoke out recently regarding the challenges that cashless bail policies have created for police in urban areas. This comes after President Donald Trump signed an executive order earlier this week designed to address these practices.
“Every place in the country where you have cashless bail is a disaster,” Trump remarked during a press appearance before signing the order. He emphasized that it was bad political leadership that initiated these changes. He pointed to situations where individuals commit serious crimes and are released on no cash bail almost immediately.
Chicago was specifically highlighted as being significantly affected by its cashless bail arrangements.
Eugene Roy, who served on the Chicago Police Department from 1986 to 2016 and ultimately rose to the role of lead detective, shared insights on how urban leadership has shifted since 2012, paving the way for the no-cash bail policies. “A group of young liberal progressive legislators began to push various bills,” he explained. “This was the onset of the free bond movement, linked to what’s now known as the Safe-T Act—allowing people back on the streets without ensuring safety in the community after committing violent acts.”
Illinois adopted the Safe-T Act, which abolished cash bail, going into effect in September 2023, consequently impacting crime victims heavily in the city.
In one shocking incident from May, Diashun Dixson attacked two men at random. Despite being assessed a $10,000 bail initially, Dixson’s release followed the implementation of the Safe-T Act.
Roy noted the implications: “You have to question if criminals are exploiting this new no-cash bond system. They are highly skilled at manipulation, whether committing armed robberies, car thefts, or shootings.”
Another concerning case involved Quijuan Waters, who, while on bail for one shooting, allegedly shot another man in the face just months later. He had a history of similar offenses, raising questions about the effectiveness of the current bail policies.
Progressive bail measures in Chicago were actually quite advanced prior to the 2023 updates. Back in 2017, Cook County introduced its “Affordable Bail” program.
In a tragic case that unfolded in 2019, Fabian Diaz, initially arrested for a gun possession charge, was released on bail only to later be involved in a gang-related shooting that resulted in a fatality.
Roy voiced concerns shared by many in the police force: “Officers come to work wanting to do their jobs but face numerous restrictions. They feel scrutinized constantly.” He added that the emotional weight of these experiences can be tough for officers, leading them to second-guess themselves in high-pressure situations.
