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Clark constitutionally incorrect

As a retired bail agency owner with more than 43 years in the industry, I read with interest your article on the bail system in Spokane County (“Does cash bail lead to revolving door?,” June 2). I must point out that the comment by Presiding Judge Harold Clark, who (if not misquoted) is incorrect that the Eighth Amendment to the United States Constitution “… requires that any bail that is set must be based on the individual’s ability to pay.”

The Eighth Amendment to the Constitution states: “Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.”

As a citizen of Spokane County, I am appalled that the presiding judge in unaware of the restrictions under the Eighth Amendment, and seems to be adding his own his own preferences.

Patricia Newcombe

Spokane

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