Maine Sheriffs Oppose Jail Waiting Time Extension

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — The head of the Maine Sheriffs Association say his group plans to oppose a proposal that would increase from 48 to 72 hours the maximum amount of time a person can be held in jail before appearing before a judge, despite support from one sheriff.

Kennebec County Sheriff Randall Liberty tells the Kennebec Journal extending the time a person can be held would potentially cause a civil rights violation and exacerbate jail overcrowding.

The state's high court has scheduled a hearing for Sept. 12 to consider extending the maximum hold time. A committee of prosecutors and defense attorneys recommended the change after hearing from Washington County Sheriff Donnie Smith. Smith says he's had to drop charges against people because a court appearance couldn't be scheduled within two days of their arrest.