H.R. 5214: District of Columbia Cash Bail Reform Act

This bill, known as the District of Columbia Cash Bail Reform Act, aims to change the way certain offenses are handled in the District of Columbia's judicial system, particularly focusing on pretrial and post-conviction detentions and bail requirements.

Pretrial and Post-Conviction Detention

The bill introduces mandatory detention before trial for individuals charged with a "crime of violence" or a "dangerous crime." Specifically:

• Judicial officers are required to detain individuals charged with these offenses until their trial.
• In the case of individuals convicted of such crimes, the bill also mandates continued detention post-conviction, with fewer provisions allowing for release.

Definitions of Violent and Dangerous Crimes

The bill specifies what constitutes a "violent crime" and a "dangerous crime" by amending existing definitions. Key changes include:

• "Burglary" is defined more restrictively to focus on first-degree burglary or those involving a dangerous weapon.
• "Robbery" definitions are similarly refined to emphasize first-degree and weapon-involved cases.

Cash Bail Requirements

The legislation requires cash bail to be set for individuals charged with public safety or order crimes. This includes offenses such as:

• Failure to appear when ordered to court
• Obstruction of justice
• Rioting
• Stalking
• Less serious forms of burglary and robbery

Individuals charged with these offenses will not be released until they post a secured bond—essentially, a cash guarantee that they will appear for their court dates.

Conditions for Release

For those qualifying for release under this bill, conditions set by judicial officers may include requirements to ensure community safety. There are provisions allowing for the arrest of individuals who fail to adhere to their bond conditions.

Applicability

The changes outlined in this bill will take effect for individuals charged with an offense in D.C. 30 days after the bill becomes law.

Relevant Companies