An Ulster County man's arrest and release after an alleged
machete-wielding domestic violence incident is renewing concerns among law
enforcement about the state's bail reform.
Saugerties police say 41-year-old Antonio Giordano used a
machete Monday to try and hack down his girlfriend's front door after he
thought the woman took his cellphone.
Authorities gave News 12 photos of the weapon and damaged
door. Giordano was charged with criminal mischief and menacing with a weapon.
Police say despite the violent incident and a history of
domestic violence at the home, Giordano was released by a judge without bail or
a restraining order to protect the victim.
"There is no equity in releasing people who are
dangerous to community members and putting them back into the community.
There's no equity in that at all," says Police Chief Joseph Sinagra, who
added that the couple are neighbors.
"I think common sense needs to kick in,” the chief
continued. “[Violent offenders] should be in the county jail and if they are
released, then they should be put on electronic monitoring.”
Supporters of bail reform say the changes ensure bail
isn’t used to punish a person, but rather ensure their return to court. Critics
say that creates dangerous consequences in an effort for fairness and is
anything but fair for the victims and the public.