Florida’s criminal defense lawyers say they are willing to work with prosecutors and police to address concerns about a new statewide bond schedule that has contributed to jail overcrowding and delays in releasing suspects.

Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gaultieri told local news organizations that HB 1627 – a 2023 measure that required a uniform bond schedule for all 20 circuits – has contributed to overcrowding at the Pinellas County Jail.

Gualtieri supports the policy, but he said more flexibility may be needed to allow the release of inmates suspected of lower-level crimes. Earlier this month, 300 inmates at the 3,000-bed facility were sleeping on cots.