NCJ Number
107248
Journal
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Criminology Volume: 20 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1987) Pages: 95-109
Date Published
1987
Length
15 pages
Annotation
Factors related to bail decisions and bail absconding were examined in data for 249 drug-related cases in New South Wales, Australia, in 1984.
Abstract
Results indicate that the rate of bail refusal by police for drug cases as a whole was high (49 percent). Charge was most closely related to bail refusal. Cases involving drug import, supply of a prohibited drug, and drug cultivation were most likely to be refused bail. Bail was refused in 90 percent of import charges. While charge relationships were similar for court bail decisions, courts were less likely to refuse bail than were police. An examination of variables related to bail absconding failed to show any relationship between absconding and charge, quantity of drug involved, or bail conditions. Data suggest that those with long prior records may be more likely to abscond than others, but small sample size did not justify statistical testing. Finally, individuals refused bail were more likely to be found guilty and to receive harsher sanctions than those granted bail. Implications of findings for bail policies are discussed with reference to the low overall rate of absconding (10 percent). 12 tables and 35 notes.