Official pushes to make it easier to post bond

A Cook County official is pushing to make it easier for non-violent offenders to post bond to stay out of the county jail.

Commissioner John Fritchey says the largest single-site jail in the nation is on the verge of reaching capacity. He says if it does become overcrowded, it’s possible a federal judge would order construction of an expensive new jail at taxpayer expense.

In a news release, Fritchey urges judges and prosecutors to “revise and modernize” how bail is set. He suggests the county follow the lead of jurisdictions where judges are more likely to release defendants who promise to appear in court.

Fritchey says non-violent offenders who pose no danger to anyone should not be held just because they can’t post bond.