AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) - Maine's chief justice said the state must find ways to reduce unnecessary pretrial incarcerations to reduce costs while also protecting the public.
In her State of the Judiciary address Tuesday, Chief Justice Leigh Saufley announced the creation of a new task force that will study the issue and make recommendations to the Legislature. It will be led by Justice Robert Mullen.
Saufley said that 60 percent of inmates in county jails are in pretrial status, but many don't pose a risk for flight or violence. She said things like enhanced risk assessment and placing more non-violent offenders into community programs can help address the issue.
She said it's time "to take on this challenge."
Saufley also urged the Legislature to support funding for more judges and other initiatives this session.
