09-07-B AMENDED, SUPERSEDES 09-07-B IN RE: CRIMINAL - PRETRIAL RELEASE PROGRAM - EXPANSION OF THE RELEASE AUTHORITY OF THE PRETRIAL RELEASE PROGRAM - ORDERED 1/18/09 BY CLAYTON D. SIMMONS
EXCERPT: “Whereas it is necessary that the undersigned Chief Judge establish, in writing, criteria which the Pretrial Release Program staff must utilize in releasing defendants under their own signature. It has been brought to the Court’s attention that Expanded Release Authority is being requested by the Pretrial Release Program to allow for the release of selected non-violent third-degree felons and bench warrants with bonds of $2000.00 or less. Whereas the purpose of this Expanded Authority is to enhance the current release authority as set forth by the State of Florida Constitution, Section 14, Florida Statute 907.041, Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure 3.125(c)(d), and 3.131(a)(b), and to provide the Pretrial Release Program with an avenue for further reductions in jail over-crowding and increases in jail cost savings. Whereas it is necessary to define the role and scope of such an expansion, offenses qualifying for release under this Administrative Order as follows: (Open AO for more information.)”