Matt Maddock, a House Representative from Michigan, has expressed concerns regarding Detroit’s pretrial screening approach. He said on the social media platform X that the city’s method of releasing defendants through cashless bail poses a threat to neighborhoods.
“The Detroit Pretrial Defendant Screening Unit is a taxpayer-funded leftist scam that releases criminals back into neighborhoods with cashless bail,” said Matthew A Maddock, Michigan State Representative for the 51st District (R).
Detroit’s Pretrial Defendant Screening Unit functions under a 2022 settlement that restricts the use of unaffordable cash bail. According to the Detroit Free Press and Safe & Just Michigan, courts are required to presume release unless there is evidence of danger or flight risk. The unit’s operations have become a focal point in political discussions during 2024–25, as critics link it to broader national debates over “cashless bail.”
Safe & Just Michigan reports indicate that early data from Detroit show a decrease in crime rates, with homicides down by 18%, shootings by 15%, and carjackings by 33% from 2022 to 2023. There is no evidence suggesting that the bail settlement has led to an increase in crime. Additionally, Department of Justice benchmarks reveal national failure-to-appear rates around 15%, which serves as context for assessing Detroit’s pretrial release trends.
Michigan’s pretrial system differs from those in states like Illinois and New Jersey. Stateline and the Scholars Strategy Network report that Illinois experienced an 11% drop in crime following its repeal of cash bail, while New Jersey maintains court-appearance rates between 89% and 95%, highlighting varied pretrial outcomes across different states.
Maddock represents Michigan’s 51st District. His official House biography and Ballotpedia describe him as a Republican businessman who has chaired transportation appropriations and frequently comments on criminal justice issues, including his criticism of Detroit’s screening unit.
Michigan’s pretrial framework is outlined by court rule MCR 6.106, which presumes release on recognizance. According to the Michigan Courts benchbook, judges may impose conditions only when necessary for safety or ensuring appearance in court. Detroit implements these rules through its screening unit, which advises on risk and release options.
