"JUSTICE OR EGO? MAGISTRATE’S BAIL RULING RAISES ALARMS"

Full story at https://caainc.org.au/

The CAA criticises Magistrate Carolyn Burnside for releasing a long-term heroin addict and an accused home invader on bail after procedural delays prevented their court appearances. 

The magistrate expressed frustration over repeated failures by corrections and police to bring the accused to court, warning they were in “contempt of court.” She even encouraged other prisoners to apply for bail, calling it a “desirable proposition.”

The CAA argues that:

• The magistrate’s actions prioritised administrative protest over public safety.
  Video link technology could have resolved the procedural issues without releasing the accused.
  The decision to release a high-risk individual without considering community safety or rehabilitation support is irresponsible.
  The magistrate’s public outburst and generalisation about releasing other prisoners undermines public trust in the judiciary.
  The government must intervene to prevent further such decisions, especially for prisoners considered dangerous.