SC mother’s death prompts calls for bond reform

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The shooting death of a single mother during a botched early-morning robbery in Columbia has become a rallying cry for not letting suspects of violent crime post bond and return to the streets.

The State newspaper reports (http://bit.ly/1eT3WqY ) about 50 people attended a rally Saturday at the Statehouse to call for reform in the criminal justice system, including how suspects are given bond.

Kelly Hunnewell was working alone at a bakery July 1 when three teenagers broke in and demanded money. The 33-year-old mother of four fought back and was shot. The men left without anything. Two of the three charged with murder were out on bond while awaiting trial on other violent crimes.

The outcry has prompted Mayor Steve Benjamin to form a panel to make suggestions for reform.

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Information from: The State, http://www.thestate.com