What does "conditional release" entail?

Conditional release involves allowing a defendant to be released from custody while imposing specific criteria or restrictions that they must adhere to. This can include requirements such as regular check-ins with a pretrial officer, attending specified programs, not contacting certain individuals, or complying with travel restrictions. The purpose of these conditions is to ensure the defendant remains engaged with the judicial process and poses no risk to the community while awaiting trial.

This approach contrasts sharply with options that suggest release without any restrictions or solely based on financial capability. A release without restrictions would not align with the concept of conditional release, which is centered on maintaining some level of oversight. A purely financial-based release disregards the evaluation of the defendant’s risk and the safety of the community, which are essential considerations in pretrial decisions. Immediate release without consultation fails to take into account the necessary assessments of risk and the establishment of appropriate conditions that support both the defendant's rights and public safety.