The Bronx Defenders responds to Gov. Cuomo’s State of the State address

New York, NY — On January 3, 2017, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo delivered the annual State of the State address in Albany and unveiled a package of criminal justice reform proposals.

Justine Olderman, Executive Director of The Bronx Defenders, responded:

“The Governor’s package of criminal justice proposals represents an important acknowledgement that we cannot have true criminal justice reform in New York without addressing three core issues: bail, discovery, and speedy trial. The calls for the elimination of money bail for misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies and for the expanded use of alternative forms of bail reflect bold changes that build on New York’s progressive traditions. As the Governor puts meat on the bones of discovery and speedy trial reform, we will be looking for the same bold and progressive vision. The details will ultimately determine the true impact of these reforms. In the weeks to come, we urge the Governor to back these proposals up with action and a commitment to the goals of reducing our jail populations, confronting racial inequality, and ensuring individualized justice.”