> This is happening at the same time where many cities are also trying more progressive, reform-based approaches to policing and charging criminals. In case it

> This is happening at the same time where many cities are also trying more progressive, reform-based approaches to policing and charging criminals. In case it needs to be said: the alternative to releasing people before their trial is indefinite detention (indefinite because the courts cannot guarantee that the trial begins immediately after arrest). A free society doesn't lock people up indefinitely without trial, even if all evidence points to them being a petty thief. To a first approximation, people (especially indigent people) don't steal things for "kicks." Eliminate the cause of the stealing, and you eliminate the crime. Fail to eliminate the cause, and you the worst of both worlds: crime and indefinite detention.