Aniah Law A Year On Transforming Justice: One year down since Aniahs Law hit the books in the Heart of Dixie, giving judges the power to slam the door on bail for those facing the shadow of violent accusations.
In the time since, it’s been wielded in some headline-grabbing cases across the statelike the heart-wrenching birthday bash shooting in Dadeville or the recent denial of bond for a suspect in the Eric Cates cold case up in Walker County.
Speaking at a recent vigil, Angela Harris, Aniahs mom, hailed the law, born out of the tragedy that befell her daughter. For her, it’s not just legal jargon; it’s a life-changer, a guardian keeping the peace.
Aniahs Law is probably my favoriteits a lifesaver. It’s the barricade that keeps violent offenders behind bars after being slapped with charges, preventing them from a quick return to the streets, shared Harris.
Local legal maestro Roger Appell adds his voice, noting that within 48 hours of a pretrial hearing, a judge must wield the gavel on bail matters. I appreciate the 48-hour window for the defendant to present evidence showing they’re not a threat. Judicial intervention, with a judge making the call instead of a preset bond, is a win, he opines.
Alabama’s Attorney General Steve Marshall weighed in: Aniahs Law hands prosecutors a potent weapon to keep violent offenders off the streets pre-trial. It’s already proving its mettle, making Alabama a safer haven. Our folks sent a resounding messageviolence won’t be tolerated in our state.
Appell acknowledges a bit of clog in the court pipes due to more hearings, but he stands firm that the law packs a punch.
Aniahs mom insists the law is reshaping the state, and her daughter’s name deserves a forever spot in the hall of honor.
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the Anniah law?
Named in honor of Aniah Blanchard, a young woman from Homewood who was abducted and tragically murdered four years ago, the law is designed to prevent violent criminals from being granted bail. Some of Alabama’s most high-profile cases have invoked Aniah’s Law to keep dangerous offenders off the streets.
What is Anaya law?
Voters have approved Aniah’s Law, granting judges the authority to refuse bail for individuals accused of violent offenses.