Being released doesn’t always mean being free. In Blackburn, many individuals leave custody on pre-charge bail or under RUI, unsure of what comes next. This reflects a broader shift in UK policing.  Government figures show that pre-charge bail is routinely used to manage investigations without immediate prosecution, ensuring public safety while enquiries continue. These decisions...

In 2024, around 259,000 individuals in England and Wales ended their pre-charge bail, accounting for nearly 37% of all arrests that year. Many people worry when placed on bail, wondering, Does pre charge bail mean you will be charged? In short—no, not necessarily. Being released on bail only means the police need more time to investigate before deciding on charges. This article explains what...