New Yorkers accused of illegally possessing guns are being released at more than double the rate than this time last year due to the pandemic.

From March 16 to Aug. 17, 47% of people accused of illegal gun possession in the city were released without a judge setting bail.

Over the same period last year, the number was just 22%. Reports say judges have been less willing to set bail in gun possession cases while the pandemic hit Rikers Island.

Brooklyn led all boroughs with 55% of those charged with illegal gun possession released without bail during the pandemic.

The Office of Court Administration released a statement saying in part, “At arraignment for a bail eligible offense, the judge takes into account a number of factors in deciding what will ensure the defendant's return to court.”