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Bail in the Midwest

Bail in the Midwest

Written by: Midwest Bail
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Bail in the Midwest explores the integral role of bail in the criminal justice system. With its roots dating back hundreds of years, bail allows individuals charged with a crime to be free pending trial, while simultaneously ensuring public safety. However, efforts to reform the bail system have escalated across the country in recent years, with calls from advocates to reduce or even eliminate the incarceration of individuals charged with a crime. With violent crime on the rise, it has become apparent that the new laws put into place are not always effective. In each episode, we discuss the many challenges involving criminal justice reform, as lawmakers seek viable solutions.


Bail in the Midwest is hosted by Shane Rolf, Executive Vice-President of the Kansas Bail Agents Association. David Stuckman, President of the Professional Bail Agents of the United States is Executive Producer of the podcast.

© 2026 Bail in the Midwest
Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Bail in the Midwest, SPECIAL EDITION! The High Cost of Cashless Bail
    Feb 23 2026

    In this solo episode, host Shane Rolf examines the growing use of “cashless bail” and how these policies often lead to preventable tragedies. Drawing on recent high-profile cases from North Carolina, Illinois and Kansas -- including the murders of Iryna Zarutska -- individuals with extensive criminal histories are frequently released on signature bonds, despite prior failures to appear and escalating conduct. He also highlights new research from California’s Yolo County which has seen higher rates of new crimes, violent offenses and repeat arrests from individuals released on zero-bail. This episode offers a forceful critique of cashless bail policies and calls for legislative reform and greater judicial accountability to protect public safety.

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    24 mins
  • Bail in the Midwest, Tracey Halley-Terrell, President of the Oklahoma Bondsman Association
    Jan 12 2026

    Join host Shane Rolf and his guest, Tracey Halley-Terrell, President of the Oklahoma Bondsman Association.

    Shane and Tracey discuss bail in Oklahoma, charitable bail funds and the growing issue of fraud.

    To learn more about Tracey, visit okbondsman.com.

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    56 mins
  • Bail in the Midwest Podcast, Mike Morrison, President, Mississippi Bail Agents Association
    Dec 15 2025

    Join host Shane Rolf and guest Mike Morrison, President of the Mississippi Bail Agents Association and owner of Mike Morrison Bail Bonding. Mr. Morrison discusses the challenges and inconsistencies bail agents face across different counties and states. He shares how Mississippi is working to modernize education, update outdated statutes and bring more uniformity to bail practices. They also discuss crime trends, the impact of federal lawsuits on fines and bail and efforts to create a statewide procedures manual. Mr. Morrison also highlights the importance of strong relationships within the industry and clear communication with courts and the public. It's a straightforward look at how Mississippi is trying to strengthen accountability across its criminal justice system.

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    1 hr and 3 mins
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