Time stands still in Cook County Jail for some inmates

Preckwinkle suggested judges could release more non-violent people on “reasonable bonds” they could pay. But Evans said “judges make decisions based on bail, not overcrowding.”

When judges set bail, they must consider dozens of factors — including defendants’ criminal backgrounds and whether they will return to court — but not the impact on the jail, Evans said.

In recent weeks, Preckwinkle has met separately with Dart, Evans and State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez. She offered them staff and money to help identify solutions, said Kristen Mack, a spokeswoman for Preckwinkle. For instance, Preckwinkle offered to pay for “expediters” for Alvarez. They could identify cases that could be disposed of quickly and expedite them through the system.

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