Shelby County District Attorney's Office Collaborates with MPD and Judicial Commissioners to Improve Bond Setting Process

In a continued effort to enhance public safety and ensure that judicial commissioners and judges have the information they need to make proper bail decisions, the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office, in collaboration with the Memphis Police Department (MPD) and Judicial Commissioners, has introduced a new comprehensive form for bond setting. 

The updated form will now include a dedicated section titled “Law Enforcement Notes,” replacing the previous bond recommendation section. This new feature is designed to guide judicial commissioners in making more informed decisions by considering the following:

1. Evidence of Flight – Indicators of whether the defendant may attempt to flee before trial.

2. Evidence of Evasion – Any known history or actions suggesting the defendant may try to evade law enforcement.

3. Evidence of Violence – Including physical acts of violence, as well as behavior exhibited on social media, which may indicate a propensity for violent behavior.

4. Evidence of Other Crimes – Information regarding any prior criminal history or related activities.

5. Other Relevant Information – Any additional factors that may be pertinent to public safety and the appropriateness of bond—e.g., gang affiliation.

D.A. Mulroy emphasized the importance of equipping judicial commissioners with all necessary tools to ensure bonds are fair, accountable, and reflective of the true threat posed to the community.

"Safety is our top priority. By providing more relevant info for judicial commissioners and judges to consider, bonds can better reflect the public safety risks posed by defendants.  This isn’t about fixing blame. It’s about getting decision-makers the best information available, to ensure public safety while maintaining fairness and accountability within the judicial system," said DA Mulroy.

For More Information Contact:

Erica Williams: erica.williams@scdag.com