Bill to eliminate cash bail in Maine for minor crimes advances

On a 10-2 vote, the Legislature's Judiciary Committee endorsed a bill that would prohibit jailing suspects who can't pay bail on most misdemeanor charges.

Lawmakers consider bill to eliminate cash bail for minor charges

The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Rachel Talbot Ross, D-Portland, would allow those charged with Class E misdemeanors like drinking in public to be released from jail without posting cash bail.

District attorney in Lewiston pushes to decriminalize prostitution for victims of sex trafficking

Some worry the move might spur more commercial sex in Maine as pimps tell young exploited women 'you won't get in trouble because it's legal in Androscoggin.'

Bill would seal records of convictions for minor marijuana offenses in Maine

Convictions for minor marijuana possession that is no longer illegal would be sealed from the public and others, and that's drawing opposition from public access advocates.

Judge blocks restart of federal executions; administration will appeal

The U.S. district judge's order came hours before the first lethal injection was scheduled to be carried out at a federal prison in Indiana.

Maine Legislature considers bill to expunge some convictions from public records

The measure would largely apply to nonviolent and low-level felonies and would exclude any crimes against a child or person over age 65.

Former Cumberland County corrections officer sentenced on drug charges

Davis Glazener will serve 10 1/2 months in prison, and his conviction has prompted the sheriff's department to change its hiring policy as it pertains to a candidate's former drug use.

Maine Senate backs bill to extend statute of limitations on sex crimes

Maine's current law sets an 8-year statute of limitations on sexual assaults, but a bill that received unanimous approval in the Senate on Tuesday would make it 20 years.

Lawmakers weigh 'ban the box' bill to help former prisoners get jobs

Officials urge improvements in Maine's criminal justice system