Blue state’s bail laws panned by police chief as violent suspects repeatedly cut loose

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch has strongly criticized New York State’s progressive bail reform laws, accusing them of creating a “revolving door” system that allows repeat offenders to be released back onto the streets before police can even complete the paperwork for their arrests. Tisch argued that this system has left New Yorkers increasingly vulnerable to violent crimes, as serial offenders continue to wreak havoc despite being apprehended repeatedly. She highlighted the case of Tyreke Martin, a man with over 70 prior arrests, including an incident where he allegedly assaulted a 2-year-old girl with a suitcase, as a prime example of how the system is failing. Martin was recently arrested after attempting to rape a woman on a train, but due to the state’s bail laws, he was released again, further illustrating the frustration Tisch expressed about the cyclical nature of crime in the city.

Despite a recent decline in overall crime rates in New York City, with February marking the third consecutive month of double-digit reductions in citywide index crime, Tisch emphasized that violent repeat offenders remain a significant problem. She pointed to alarming statistics showing a sharp increase in recidivism rates for various crimes, with burglary, shoplifting, and auto theft cases seeing staggering rises of 61%, 64%, and 5,019% respectively. Tisch described the situation as “demoralizing” and “unsustainable,” stating that police officers are doing their jobs and making record-breaking felony arrests, only to see their efforts undermined when offenders are released back into the community. She expressed deep concern that the public is suffering as a result of these policies, urging for a common-sense approach to the issue.

The NYPD is also grappling with a hiring crisis, which Tisch attributed to the lingering effects of the “defund the police” movement that gained momentum in 2020 following the death of George Floyd. She noted that while Mayor Adams has provided ample resources and approved new recruit classes, the number of applicants has drastically declined. “We are practically begging people to take the exam,” Tisch said, highlighting the stark contrast to the past, when aspiring officers would wait years for the opportunity to join the force. She also addressed the toxic rhetoric aimed at law enforcement, calling it “vile” and noting that it has discouraged many from pursuing careers in policing. Tisch emphasized that more officers on the streets would make the city safer, but the current dynamic has made it increasingly challenging to recruit and retain talent.

Tisch also addressed the broader challenges facing the criminal justice system, pointing to a breakdown in accountability. She criticized the district attorney’s office and the courts for failing to prosecute repeat offenders, citing Martin’s case as a glaring example. Despite having a pending arrest warrant for assaulting a woman, Martin was released again after the district attorney’s office declined to prosecute, and his warrant was vacated by a judge. “What are we doing?” Tisch asked, expressing frustration over the repeated failures of the system to hold criminals accountable. She asserted that the lack of consequences for repeat offenders has emboldened them, leaving innocent New Yorkers to bear the consequences.

In addition to these issues, Tisch reaffirmed the NYPD’s commitment to enforcing laws fairly and equally, regardless of immigration status. She made clear that the department would not participate in civil immigration enforcement, such as deportations, in line with local laws. This stance reflects the department’s focus on addressing crime without overstepping into federal responsibilities, ensuring that all New Yorkers feel safe and protected. However, Tisch’s speech was primarily a call to action, urging policymakers to address the root causes of the recidivism crisis and the systemic failures that are undermining public safety.

Overall, Tisch’s remarks painted a picture of a police force that is overburdened and demoralized, despite its efforts to reduce crime and protect the city. She voiced the frustration of both officers and everyday New Yorkers, calling for a return to common-sense policies that prioritize public safety and accountability for repeat offenders. As the city continues to grapple with these challenges, Tisch’s speech served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform and the importance of supporting law enforcement in their mission to keep New York safe.