The Problems and Solutions of the Functional Alienation of Pre-trial Detention-Analysis based on the theory of the criminal procedure model and empirical data

The key to implementing the criminal justice policy of ‘fewer arrests, cautious detention’ lies in reducing the rate of pre-trial detention and cautiously imposing detention measures. Through the calculation of pre-trial detention rates from both domestic and international data, it is observed that, while China’s detention rate has dropped by nearly half over the past two decades, it still remains above the global average. Additionally, empirical statistics of 4 769 court judgments indicate that a small number of arrest cases do not meet the statutory arrest standards, and the system for imposing lenient punishments on those confessing to their crimes and accepting punishments has not significantly reduced the detention rate. In seeking ways to address the issues of pre-trial detention, it is crucial to deeply link the practical mechanisms of criminal justice with value system. This involves exploring how the value objectives and structural models of criminal procedure can positively guide the application of detention. In the dimension of procedural values, adherence to the criminal procedure effectiveness theory should be maintained, while in the dimension of procedural mechanisms, judicial review and supervision model should be introduced to release the effectiveness of the policy of fewer arrests and cautious detention, so as to enhance the legitimacy and restraint of pre-trial detention.