Being released on bail is an opportunity for defendants to prepare for their case while remaining out of custody, but it comes with strict conditions. Committing another crime while out on bail can have serious legal consequences, often making the situation far worse than the original charges.
In many cases, the court may revoke bail entirely, impose harsher penalties, or increase the likelihood of a longer sentence. Whether the new crime is minor or severe, reoffending while out on bail can drastically impact both pending and future cases. In this article, we’ll break down what happens when someone is arrested again while on bail and what legal options may be available when you call a Milford bail bondsman. Read on!
What happens if someone commits a crime while out on bail?
Reoffending while on bail can lead to severe legal consequences, often complicating both the original case and any new charges. Understanding what happens next can help defendants and their families prepare for the potential outcomes:
1. Immediate arrest and new charges
If a defendant commits another crime while out on bail, they will be arrested again and face additional charges. Depending on the severity of the new offense, law enforcement may take them into custody immediately or issue a warrant for their arrest. These new charges will be separate from the original case, meaning the defendant will now have multiple pending cases in court. In some situations, the judge may view this as a sign that the defendant is unwilling to follow the law, leading to harsher legal consequences.
2. Bail revocation and denial of future bail
One of the most serious consequences of reoffending while out on bail is the potential revocation of bail. The judge has the authority to cancel the original bail agreement, meaning the defendant would be taken back into custody and remain in jail until trial. Additionally, when facing the new charges, the judge may deny bail altogether, especially if the defendant is seen as a flight risk, a repeat offender, or a risk to public safety. This means they could be held without the possibility of release until both cases are resolved.
3. Increased bail amount and stricter conditions
If the judge does not revoke bail completely, they may choose to increase the bail amount significantly. This is often done to deter further offenses and to ensure the defendant takes their legal responsibilities seriously. In addition to raising bail, the court may impose stricter release conditions, such as house arrest, electronic monitoring, or mandatory check-ins with law enforcement. These additional measures are meant to prevent further violations and ensure that the defendant appears in court as required.
4. Impact on the original case
Committing another crime while on bail can severely affect the outcome of the original case. Prosecutors may use the new offense as evidence that the defendant lacks remorse or respect for the legal process, making it harder to argue for leniency or reduced charges. In some instances, the defendant may face harsher sentencing if convicted, as judges often consider repeat offenses when determining penalties. The defense attorney may also have a more difficult time negotiating plea deals, as prosecutors are less likely to offer favorable terms to someone who reoffends.
5. Additional criminal charges for violating bail conditions
Even if the new crime is unrelated to the original offense, breaking the terms of the bail agreement is often considered a separate violation. This means that in addition to facing new criminal charges, the defendant may also be charged with “bail jumping” or “failure to comply with conditions of release.” These violations can result in additional fines, longer jail time, or even separate felony charges, depending on the circumstances.
What legal options are available?
If someone is arrested again while out on bail, they still have legal options, but the situation becomes much more challenging. Their defense attorney can request a bail hearing to argue for continued release, but this is not guaranteed. The best course of action is to comply fully with all bail conditions, seek legal counsel immediately, and avoid any further legal trouble. In some cases, demonstrating responsibility – such as voluntarily turning oneself in or cooperating with authorities – may help the defense negotiate better terms.
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At BailCo Bail Bonds Manchester, we know that securing bail is about more than just freedom – being released allows defendants to prepare for their case, maintain their daily lives, and avoid the psychological impact of prolonged jail time.
With years of experience, we provide fast, affordable, and professional bail bond services to help you or your loved one get released as quickly as possible. When you need a trusted team to help navigate the bail process, we’re here 24/7 to provide the support and discretion you deserve in New Haven County and across CT. Call us today!