Learn more about the problems and solutions to the cash bail system with these videos from the BAIL TRAP series by Brave New Films:
Breaking Down bail
Eliminating the money bail system is one way to reduce mass incarceration in the U.S. Yet, few people know what the money bail system is, let alone how it works. That's why we're here to explain it all to you. Learn the basics and common misconceptions about bail in Breaking Down Bail, the first video in our Bail Trap series.
How Much Is Your Freedom Worth?
Money bail creates long-term problems for many American families. In this film, spoken-word poetry and creative reenactments are performed by artists who have been formerly incarcerated.
New Jersey’s Money Bail Overhaul: A Success Story
The Bail Trap series ends with a success story – New Jersey’s historic money bail reform. On January 1, 2017, New Jersey essentially ended its money bail system. The state’s pretrial incarceration rate has since dropped 17.2%. New Jersey Bail tells the story of Tyler, who was arrested and given probation following an altercation with a relative. The court decided against prison time, and thanks to New Jersey’s system Tyler didn’t have to sit in jail for months to learn his fate. New Jersey’s new pretrial justice system provides hope and best practices for states working to end mass incarceration.