This Letter to the Editor appeared in The Columbus Dispatch.

In his Jan. 26 op-ed, Jeffrey J. Clayton, executive director of the American Bail Coalition, touted a poll that claims Ohioans reject bail reform. Unfortunately, the poll’s sample size of 100 people more closely resembled a “Family Feud” survey than a scientific study. At a minimum, the coalition should release the questions asked, the margin of error and whether the poll meets standards recommended by the American Association for Public Opinion Research.

Just last month, a national poll using industry standards found that 85 percent of people favored replacing cash bail with supervised release, especially in cases where the defendant does not pose a threat to society.

The outcomes from jurisdictions that have moved away from money bail and are using verified risk-assessment tools speak for themselves. In those jurisdictions, less crime is being committed by those awaiting trial, more defendants are showing up for court and defendants who enjoy the presumption of innocence can keep their jobs and support their families.

Whether the goal is public safety, fairness for the poor or saving taxpayer money, “the survey says” ... reform bail.

Daniel J. Dew
Legal fellow
The Buckeye Institute’s Legal Center
Columbus