Bronx and city residents who get arrested are spending too much time in jail before arraignment, according to the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU).

The NYCLU believes an earlier state appeals court ruling, in which the court said arrested New Yorkers are entitled to an arraignment in 24 hours, is being ignored. Due to this, the group wants the City Council to pass Intro. 53. This so-called "Charge or Release Bill" mandates arraignments be held within 24 hours of a person?s arrest. The NYCLU delivered a petition to the council signed by more than 1,000 New Yorkers and 15 civil rights groups backing the measure.

NYCLU officials say thousands of New Yorkers, especially minorities, spend 30 to 50 hours behind bars for minor offenses they are ultimately never charged for.