'57,000 people on police bail'

[super jumbe]

More than 57,000 people are currently on police bail, with thousands waiting over six months to discover whether they will be charged, research shows.

In one case a person arrested three-and-a-half years ago remains on bail, according to data collected by the BBC.

Figures from 34 of the 44 police forces in England, Wales and Northern Ireland which responded to a Freedom of Information request show that at least 57,428 people are currently on bail, the study for BBC Radio 5 live found. Of those, 3,172 have been waiting for more than six months for a decision on charges.

The largest number on bail was in the Metropolitan Police force's area - 12,178 - with West Yorkshire second on 3,979. Greater Manchester has the third highest number, 3,854.

The Met has the highest number on bail for more than six months, 910, with West Yorkshire second, 859, and Lancashire third, 187.

http://uk.news.yahoo.com/57-000-people-police-bail-002051030.html#V2vJ088

[super jumbe]

Over crowded only reason I could think off, we have to wait for our prisons to get emptied first, after we can charge the criminal and send them to prison, we need to built new prisons when we have no money.

[GastonJ]

TBH one of the biggest reasons, that I can think of, is the backlog exists because there are not enough police investigating the crimes. This line says it all

More than 57,000 people are currently on police bail, with thousands waiting over six months to discover whether they will be charged, research shows.

It's not that they've been charged, but are being investigated to make a decision as to whether they should be charged. Police too busy handing out speeding tickets to investigate real crimes and obtain enough evidence to charge or not charge those people.

[ajax2061]

is it police or the courts that are too full ? whichever it is I just hope no really nasty crims out on bail due to it

[Meat-Head]

Off topic ish


did i see a thread about building special courts fir. Moterists?

[ajax2061]

seen something about that

[GastonJ]

It is to 'fast track' those who would plead guilty and get them through with the minimum cost to the government for the maximum profit.....

[Kalipo]

I read this before.. and read it as BALL not BAIL.. now ive discovered 57,000 are not going to the police ball i can reply..

Think its duscusting.. the hole system needs a overhaul.. even the right to appeal against cautions.. there isnt one?? why??