Orleans Parish D.A. Takes Steps To Address Early Releases Of Suspects

Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams says he's taking steps in response to the high number of suspects released without charges.

On Thursday, Williams said his office has a limited time to file charges.

Most felony suspects are freed from jail if the D.A. doesn't bring charges within two months.

Most defendants out on bond are released from their bond obligations after 150 days.

Releases of this nature have jumped from three in 2016 to 885 in 2021.

Williams says he's already demoted the first assistant D.A. and the chief of screening.