We get it: everyone makes mistakes, and we don’t get to choose the consequences. If your mistake lands you or a loved one in jail, call ABC Bail Bonds. We’ll work hard to get you out of jail and back to your life as soon as possible.
Jail isn’t the ideal way to spend your time, but the spread of COVID-19 makes jail a dangerous place to be. Instead of releasing inmates so they can self-isolate and stay safe leading up to their court date, Greg Abbott has officially made it almost impossible for arrestees to get out of jail if they’ve ever had a violent offense on their record. This choice isn’t just unjust, but the timing means it might lead to countless inmates being exposed to COVID-19. This executive order seems unsafe, and it’s bound to have dangerous consequences for inmates.
The Dangers of Jail and COVID-19
In jail, inmates can’t take any of the measures necessary to stop the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing is impossible in crowded cells, health care is extremely hard to get, and the poor sanitary conditions mean the virus can spread faster among inmates than it does among the general population. Some states and counties have started releasing certain inmates to lower jail populations, but this might be too little too late. With Governor Abbott’s new executive order, more inmates will be forced to stay in an unsafe environment and continually expose themselves to COVID-19.
Greg Abbott Blocks Violent Offenders from Bail
Governor Greg Abbott recently passed an executive order. The order states that violent offenders cannot get out of jail unless they can pay their entire bail. Political officials are questioning whether or not this move is even constitutional, but the order remains in place for now.
This means violent offenders are being held in jail only based on their economic situation. Inmates living in poverty, as well as inmates without sufficient savings, are forced to stay in jail until their court date. This limits the abilities of Texas counties to thin the populations of their jails, and it forces violent offenders, including those whose violent offenses are in the past, to stay in an unsafe environment with increased exposure to COVID-19.
What this Means for Inmates
It’s already been proven that COVID-19 spreads faster in jails due to overcrowding and poor sanitation, and now more inmates will be forced to stay in unsanitary quarters with close proximity to strangers who might carry the virus. Governor Abbott’s executive order fails to protect an entire population from the risk of COVID-19. If you can get out on bail, it’s more important than ever to make every effort to do so.
Fast, Affordable Bail with ABC Bail Bonds
If you’re able to get out on bail, doing so might save your life and the lives of other inmates. Call ABC Bail Bonds in Houston and any of the surrounding areas to get yourself or a loved one out of jail as soon as possible. We know you can’t afford to wait for your court date in jail, which is why we work hard to help you get back to your life. If we can, we’ll bail you out, no questions asked! We look forward to helping you.
