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+---- Thread: Manafort judge unconstitutionally denied bail (/thread-851853.html)
Manafort judge unconstitutionally denied bail - bullet - 06-15-2018 09:49 PM
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/paul-manaforts-bail-situation-is-ridiculous-and-unconstitutional
"...But what really happened is that Mueller’s team only introduced evidence that Manafort had attempted to reach and was possibly in contact with witnesses in connection with the original charges. Talking to witnesses is not the same thing as witness tampering.
In the context of mounting a defense, even for far less serious charges, it’s routine for defense investigators and even the defendant himself to contact witnesses and ask what they may testify to....
The whole purpose reasonable bail is specifically textually guaranteed is because due process operates under the presumption of innocence for anyone accused of a criminal offense. The Eighth Amendment actually presumes bail and release, and prohibits the government from requiring “excessive bail....”
And whatever may result at Manafort’s forthcoming trial or other negotiated disposition does not change the fact that merely communicating with potential witnesses is a very weak basis to deny bail that was already excessive."