Taking Money Out of Justice: The Bail Project and the Fight to End Cash Bail

Prison Yoga Project Podcast

Join us for the next installment of Prison Yoga Project’s webinar series, “Taking Money Out of Justice: The Bail Project and the Fight to End Cash Bail,” where we will explore the critical work of The Bail Project in addressing the injustices of the cash bail system.

The Bail Project provides free bail assistance to individuals, helping them return to court and access supportive services while awaiting trial. From 2018 to 2023, they have assisted over 30,000 people, saved taxpayers $92 million, and maintained a 92% court appearance rate.

The cash bail system in America creates a profound disparity in the justice system, disproportionately affecting low-income individuals and communities of color. Under this system, individuals who cannot afford to pay bail are forced to remain in jail while awaiting trial, often leading to loss of employment, housing, and even custody of children. This system perpetuates a cycle of poverty and criminalization, as many feel pressured to plead guilty, regardless of their innocence, just to regain their freedom. The Bail Project aims to dismantle this inequitable practice by providing free bail assistance and advocating for systemic reforms to ensure a fairer, more just legal process for all.

Joining us are CEO David Gaspar and Director of Communications and Publication, Jeremy Cherson. As Chief Executive Officer, David Gaspar leads the strategic planning, organizational management, programmatic development, external affairs, and fundraising activities for The Bail Project. A formerly incarcerated individual directly affected by the cash bail system, David earned his GED and bachelor’s degree, studied law while in prison, won his appeal, and was released 11 years early. His journey fuels his passion for justice reform and commitment to social justice, dedicating his time to mentoring young people and facilitating re-entry for formerly incarcerated individuals.

Jeremy Cherson directs the organization’s communications, earned media, public relations, internal communications, and publications strategies. With over fifteen years of experience in criminal justice reform, community-based research, and government operations, Jeremy has been instrumental in developing The Bail Project’s policy team and overseeing numerous advocacy campaigns. His prior work with the New York City Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice included leading major initiatives such as the Mayor’s Action Plan for Neighborhood Safety and the DOJ-funded Smart Defense Initiative.

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Resources and Links

https://bailproject.org/

https://bailproject.org/news/

https://bailproject.org/category/press/

https://bailproject.org/learn/after-cash-bail/