Ohio Repeat Offender Allegedly Kills Man Days After Bail Release

An Ohio repeat offender, Donnie Allen, was accused of murdering 27-year-old Benjamin McComas just days after being released on bail, sparking debate over pretrial release and bail reform. The alleged shooting occurred at a Cleveland light rail station on Sunday, Dec. 14, around 7:30 p.m., according to local authorities.

Background on Bail Release:
Allen had previously been arrested for drug possession, breaking and entering, vandalism, and other charges at the same Cleveland light rail station on Dec. 4. His initial bond was set at $15,000 but was later lowered to $5,000 by Judge Joy Kennedy on Dec. 8.

The nonprofit The Bail Project paid $500 for Allen to be released on Dec. 9, allowing him to be out of jail just five days before the alleged murder.

Allen’s Criminal History:
Allen is a repeat offender with multiple convictions and arrests over recent years:

• 2024: Two counts of attempted burglary, assault on a peace officer, obstructing official business, resisting arrest, drug possession

• 2022: Burglary

• 2021: Burglary

• 2019: Two counts of burglary, one count of criminal damaging

Allen’s attorney, James Jenkins, claimed that the Dec. 14 incident was “far from” intentional homicide.

Response from The Bail Project:
A spokesperson for the organization told Fox News Digital:

"The Bail Project condemns violence and we are deeply concerned by the recent allegation involving Mr. Allen. Our mission is to ensure people are not jailed pretrial solely because they cannot afford bail."

The organization emphasized its commitment to addressing inequities in the criminal justice system and promoting safety while reducing reliance on cash bail.

Judge’s View on Bail Reform:
Judge Kennedy has consistently voiced support for bail reform. In 2024, she told The Marshall Project:

"Bail reform is necessary to address issues of inequities within the criminal justice system… to promote equal access to justice and prevent unnecessary pretrial detention."

Closing:
The case of Donnie Allen has reignited discussions over bail reform, nonprofit bail programs, and the risks of releasing repeat offenders. With the tragedy of Benjamin McComas’ death, the incident is likely to provoke renewed debate on pretrial justice policies nationwide.