Coryell examines program to aid jail
March 9, 2010
By Taylor Short
Killeen Daily Herald
GATESVILLE – As a short-term remedy to the overcrowding jail problem in Coryell County, commissioners discussed a grant application for a state program Monday that would potentially save money as well.
The program, if implemented, would supply an indigent defense coordinator to arrange the defense services for those facing criminal charges in the county. One way to keep the county jail less overcrowded – and to save money by shipping fewer inmates out of county – is to grant those who commit a minor offense and cannot afford to post bond a personal recognizance bond at the judge's or prosecutor's discretion, allowing them to pledge a personal guarantee that they will be present at their court date.
"I have seen this work in other places and having someone who specifically does that is really beneficial," said Gatesville attorney Scott Stevens, who also serves as court-appointed counsel for county felony defense. During the meeting, Stevens said with two or three people appointing attorneys, sometimes coordination problems occur that can lead to the county overpaying for defense services.
Read the entire article HERE.
