Passage of constitutional amendments impacts District Attorneys

From the West Alabama Newsroom–

Alabama voters passed two constitutional amendments during Tuesday’s election — that impact district attorneys offices around the state.

They passed Amendment 1 — in overwhelming fashion. It allows a judge to deny bail for certain weapons charges — and solicitation, attempt or conspiracy to commit murder.

Dallas Co. District Attorney Robert Turner, Jr. says it allows a suspect to be held without bond for about 72 hours — before appearing in front of a judge.

“It is definitely a tougher law. I think it’s going to make a big impact in the community,” said Turner.

“Because what it does is it expands the listing of offenses that a person can be held in Alabama without a bond.”

Turner says bond will hinge on whether the judge determines the suspect to be a flight risk. Or poses a danger to the community.

“When a crime like that is committed in the past, the person could bail out relatively quick. And then the community has to worry about retaliatory action from the victim’s family. Or that person may go out and commit a new offense,” Turner said.

Voters also passed Amendment 2 during Tuesday’s election — protecting DA salaries during their term in office.

“It basically assured people that the salary that you came in on would not be lowered,” he said.

Turner says the amendments take effect after the election results are certified by the Secretary of State — and signed off on by the Governor.