Democrats running against Nassau County executive Bruce Blakeman are criticizing the US cash bail system, pointing to a social media post that has resurfaced. They argue that it exacerbates “racial inequality.”
On March 30, 2021, Nassau Rep. Seth Koslow expressed on Facebook, “We will criminalize poverty and exacerbate racial inequality.” This came after Andrew Cuomo approved a controversial New York law eliminating cash bail for numerous offenses.
Koslow also reacted to an ACLU article on December 3, 2019, emphasizing that “ending mass incarceration will require changes to hundreds of laws and practices in every state.”
The posts have since been removed from Koslow’s page.
As he prepares to challenge Republican Blakeman in November, issues surrounding bail reform and public safety have become focal points in these contentious races.
Blakeman has seized the chance to confront his opponent as he seeks a second term.
“Seth Koslow is a potential criminal candidate who wishes to reduce protections, supports cashless bail, and even claims that victims want to be assaulted,” he asserted.
Koslow, a criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor, responded to Blakeman’s claims about rising crime in specific areas of Nassau. He emphasized that crime has indeed increased under Blakeman’s administration.
“Bruce Blakeman has made Nassau County the safest county in America and hired 600 new law enforcement officers without raising taxes in the last four years,” said Blakeman’s representatives.
Koslow countered in a statement that, according to his assessments, crime levels have risen during Blakeman’s tenure. “Crime is on the rise.” He further claimed, “I’m dedicated to public safety, support law enforcement, and believe that criminals should face consequences.”
“Bruce Blakeman is a liar,” he declared. “He excels at sound bites, but he’s just another seasoned politician who has mismanaged Nassau and compromised safety.”
