Hmm. Actually, the algorithm could be very transparent. It would be there to consistently apply the rules. If the rules were too harsh, and not effective in

Hmm. Actually, the algorithm could be very transparent. It would be there to consistently apply the rules. If the rules were too harsh, and not effective in some way, they can be tuned. The algorithm could be as simple as: first time offender, non violent case, 0 bond second time offender, non violent case, 100 bond etc. Another idea that may benefit all would be to force people who have gone through the system to create a bond "deposit account". Like a health savings account. This amount could be collected slowly over time -- forced deductions from pay. People without jobs or money -- must be released without bond then, in the case of non-violent crimes.