California has become the first state in the nation to get rid of bail. When the law takes effect next year, most suspects arrested for nonviolent misdemeanors will be released while those facing violent felonies will stay in prison.

Local bailbondsman TJ Esposito will be out of a job within the next year. He thinks it’ll increase crime because there’s no incentive to show up to court and is unfair to some people awaiting trial because they won’t be able to call on the President, Governor, or Sheriff to get them out.

Supporters say ending bail levels the playing field for poor and minority suspects who can’t afford the fees.

Kelli Pierce