Public Perceptions about Bail Reform and Pretrial Supervision Strategies

• In Event: Assessing Public Knowledge & Confidence in Social Control Strategies

Abstract

The United States maintains one of the highest pretrial detention rates in the world. Policymakers nationwide have sought to address this issue through pretrial reform efforts, typically focused on reducing judicial reliance on bail as a pretrial release mechanism. For instance, some jurisdictions have eliminated or reduced the use of cash bail (i.e., bail reform). Alternatively, other jurisdictions have turned to alternative pretrial supervision strategies (e.g., electronic monitoring, drug testing) to facilitate defendant release into the community while awaiting trial. However, limited literature exists on the general public’s perceptions about pretrial reform efforts. This study explores public attitudes and knowledge about these pretrial reform efforts. For instance, individuals may be supportive of bail reform but not support alternative supervision strategies. We developed a cross-sectional survey administered to a general United States sample (N=513) via Qualtrics Sampling Services. Results will speak to public attitudes on reform efforts, public preferences on pretrial supervision strategies, and potential individual characteristics that drive public perceptions. Findings may inform which aspects of pretrial reform the public generally supports and speak more broadly to public awareness of pretrial reform efforts.

Authors

• Mindy Thai, George Mason University

• Evan Marie Lowder, George Mason University

• Ally Ng, George Mason University

• Kiara Hayes, George Mason University

• Janine Impat, George Mason University