Senator Jim Tedesco

"Senator Tedesco Raises Bail Reform Concerns Over Alleged Repeat Offender"

Fact Check: Fearmongering

The Briefing

WRGB-Albany spread misinformation and quotes Republican State Senator Jim Tedesco’s false and fearmongering claims about bail reform without correcting the record.

Although WRGB describes a woman who was arrested for two robberies, describing one as a “violent mugging,” the article states that she could be released under new bail reform laws. This is misleading. A robbery that results in any kind of physical injury can be charged as Robbery in the Second Degree, which is a Class C violent felony and bail-eligible offense. A judge would have full discretion regarding whether to set bail, just as prior to January 1, 2020. However, publicly available information indicates that the woman has been charged with a top count of Robbery in the Third Degree, which involves no injuries and is a non-violent offense. She also appears to have been arrested for both cases simultaneously, meaning there is no nexus between bail and the alleged commission of either crime. If she were to be arrested on felony charges while released on an open matter, bail could be set.

Despite his position as a legislator who presumably read the law he goes on to smear, Senator Tedesco not only confirms this misinformation but goes on to blame bail reform for New York City crime stats, a position that has been debunked by experts. He also states that criminal justice reform is to blame for this alleged crime, despite absolutely no evidence suggesting that this is true.

Story Link

Link here for coverage.

NYPD, Media Outlets Cruelly Dehumanize Man, Fearmonger About Bail Reform

Study finds more proof bail reform works

Leaders, media falsely link Times Square assault to bail reform

NY Post, Manhattan Institute Lie To New Yorkers About Discovery Reform

Report Finds Media Coverage Of Pretrial Reform Fell Short

Lawmaker's Plan To Reduce Car Thefts Another Example of Failed Carceral Mindset

News Nation Falsely Ties Tragic Death To Bail Reform

Law Enforcement, Elected Officials Criticize Due Process

Law Enforcement, News Story Mislead New Yorkers About Discovery Reform