Fresno logbook: Zero dollar bail a zero-sum game for repeat offenders?

The SCC dropped its zero dollar bail policy amid evidence of skyrocketed local violent crime. However, catch-and-release supporters fiercely insist that releasing criminals pre-trial doesn’t lead to increased violent crime. A Fresno County press release, about a local’s repeated offenses made possible by zero bail—including rape and assault with a deadly weapon—suggests otherwise. To receive daily updates of new Opp Now stories, click here.

37 year old Eric Christopher Simmons is currently housed in the Fresno County Jail facing eight felony charges.

He was arrested on Tuesday, May 19th, for offenses such as:  Spousal abuse, auto theft, looting and committing a felony while out on bail.  His current bail is $95,000.  This amount is lower than usual due to four of his charges deemed eligible for zero dollar bail.

Roughly six weeks ago, Simmons was arrested for misdemeanor battery.  His bail was set at $5,000.  He posted bond and was released from custody later that same day.

On April 23rd, deputies arrested Simmons for evading a peace officer, driving on a suspended license, possession of drugs for sale and bringing drugs into jail.  All three felony and three misdemeanor charges qualified for zero dollar bail and Simmons was allowed to be released from jail less than four hours after being taken into custody.  Without the zero dollar bail rule, his bail would have been set at $58,000.

On May 2nd, deputies arrested Simmons again.  This time on charges of rape, robbery, battery, assault with a deadly weapon, possession of drugs for sale and an outstanding warrant for spousal abuse.  His bail was set at $40,500.  He posted bond one week later and was released from custody.

This article originally appeared in the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office. Read the whole thing here.

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