When an accused person is detained before their trial, it’s referred to as pretrial detention. This happens a lot in the United States, which has the most pretrial detainees in the world. Unfortunately, sitting in a Connecticut correctional facility unnecessarily due to issues posting bail can have a lot of negative impacts. Here are a few of the most common. 

3 Negative Effects of Pretrial Detention

1. Worse Outcomes

People who struggle to post bail are more likely to end up in jail again for a future crime. Thus, pretrial detention can make it more difficult for detainees to get jobs later on, and crime rates may rise. Additionally, a person who sits in a correctional facility longer than necessary may be more likely to plead guilty—even if they’re innocent. 

2. COVID-19  

The current pandemic makes spending time in a correctional facility dangerous, putting officers and detainees at risk. Hundreds of individuals in prisons across Connecticut have already tested positive for COVID-19. Keeping unnecessary detainees in a correctional facility only exacerbates the problem and spreads the virus further. Allowing accused individuals to reasonable bail will protect their health and allow them to help their families during the pandemic, a difficult economic and emotional time for many. 

Additionally, pandemic-related court closures have created a back log in Connecticut. If individuals don't post bail, they’ll have to spend more time waiting in jail than prior to COVID-19. In turn, their chances of getting the virus go up, endangering their health. 

3. False Confessions

In some cases, an individual will plead guilty because they are tired of being in a correctional facility and waiting for their day in court. If they go this route, they’ll get an inmate number that is tied to them, negatively impacting their life when they get out. In addition to the psychological effects and stigma associated with spending time in prison, it also becomes harder for the individual to find a job and support their family afterward. 

If your loved one is waiting for their trial, and you’re having trouble posting bail, contact 3-D Bail Bonds. With over two decades of experience in Connecticut, we’ll help protect your friend or relative from the negative impacts of pretrial detention. Visit our website to learn more about the services we offer including our COVID safe pretrial release service. Call (860) 247-2245 to speak to a bail bondsman in Hartford about posting bail. This office is directly across the street from the Hartford Correctional Center at 57 Fishfry St. To reach the New Britain location, call (860) 229-2525. Finally, call (203) 562-6666 to discuss your situation with a bail bondsman in New Haven.