Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,C,I-Deerpark) joined colleagues, law enforcement and family members of victims at a press conference in Albany held by Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C,I,Ref-Pulaski) calling on Assembly Majority to change their bail reform laws. The new laws, which went into effect statewide January 1, are allowing dangerous serial criminals to be released from jail following their arrest.

Meer days ago, Jordan Randolph was struck and killed by a three-time drunk driver with six total felony convictions on Long Island. The man has since been released from jail.

“I was proud to stand in solidarity with law enforcement from around the state, my colleagues in the Legislature and those who tragically lost loved ones due to these senseless bail reform changes. Enough is enough. When are Majority politicians going to wake up and realize the horrors their partisan crusade has caused,” Brabenec said.

Joining lawmakers at the press conference today was Jennifer Payne, mother of Sarah Tombs who was shot and killed in April 2019 by her live-in boyfriend. The individual was released from custody last week under the new bail reform laws.

“Lives are being cut short, families left in mourning, because the Assembly Majority believe justice starts and ends with protecting criminals over the law-abiding middle class – disgraceful. I am calling on Assembly Majority politicians to do the right thing and work with us to make changes to bail reform immediately before more damage is done,” Brabenec finished.

Brabenec was one of the first state lawmakers to introduce legislation that would repeal bail reform entirely (A.8855). He has also launched a statewide petition for New Yorkers to show their support. Sign the petition at bit.ly/StopBailReform.