Article: Pidyon Shvuim for a Thief

If someone is arrested because of theft, either stealing from the government of from private parties, and people are interested in Pidyon Shvuim, there is a debate amongst contemporary Poskim if really Pidyon Shvuim applies in such a case. Some suggest that perhaps it is preferable not to bail out the thief so that his time in jail will act as a deterrent for him to steal again in the future. This is an important question that needs serious consideration, and one should discuss it with a competent Rov on a case-by-case basis.

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