Saratoga Standard

On August 15, 2024, a judge expressed frustration during a hearing regarding the suspects involved in the robbery of Lola in Saratoga Springs. The judge noted his inability to set bail for the alleged burglars due to New York’s current bail law.

“You could hear in the judge's voice when they first went before him for the brazen robbery of Lola in Saratoga Springs and again at today's hearing that he wanted to set bail for these alleged burglars but was not empowered to do so as 49 other states are because of New York’s failed bail law,” a source stated.

The suspects, who reportedly have criminal records, were released without bail. “Now these three suspects, who I’m told have a rap sheet, are again free to possibly commit additional crimes. That's absurd,” said another source familiar with the case.

Critics argue that the current bail law favors criminals over victims. “The scales of justice are now tipped in favor of criminals as crime victims have become the forgotten New Yorkers,” remarked an observer.

There is ongoing legislative effort aimed at addressing this issue. “We need to pass my bipartisan legislation (S.905) to repeal this failed law and give judges reasonable discretion,” one legislator emphasized.