New study of NJ bail overhaul shows fewer people in jail

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) - A new study shows New Jersey's 2-year-old bail overhaul led to 40% drop in the number of people in jail in 2018 compared with 2012.

The state court system released its 2018 annual report on the 2017 criminal justice overhaul that largely did away with the state's cash bail system.

The 52-page report found 6,000 fewer people, or 40%, in jail in October 2018 compared with the same date in October 2012.

It also found that defendants spent 40% fewer days in jail before trial in 2017 compared with 2014, from about 62 days to 37 days.

The report also says recidivism rates went up just one point. While out on bail, about 13% of defendants were charged with new offenses. Under the new system, about 14% were.