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MDCR Director James E. White Commends Washtenaw County Prosecutor's Plan to End Cash Bail

LANSING, MI--Today, Michigan Department of Civil Rights Director James E. White issued the following statement in response to the announcement that Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit would end the system of cash bail in the county.

“The move by Prosecutor Eli Savit to end the system of cash bail is a farsighted, progressive change that will have an impact far beyond Washtenaw County,” said James E. White, Director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. “Cash bail can perpetuate racial inequities, exacerbate poverty and hurt families. It is particularly appropriate to end cash bail for non-violent crimes and individuals who pose no threat to the community. I encourage prosecutors throughout Michigan to look to Washtenaw County's example and consider making common-sense changes to the cash bail system in their own offices.”

The Michigan Department of Civil Rights is charged with investigating and resolving discrimination complaints and works to prevent discrimination through educational programs that promote voluntary compliance with civil rights laws. It also provides information and services to businesses on diversity initiatives and equal employment law. For more information on the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, go to www.michigan.gov/mdcr.

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