Crowley County Court Process

Navigating a DUI Arrest in Crowley County: A Local's Guide

If you've been arrested for DUI in Crowley County, Colorado, understanding the local legal landscape is crucial. Unlike larger cities, Crowley County operates under a "rural justice" system with unique challenges and procedures. This guide provides actionable information to help you navigate the process effectively.

Immediate Steps After a Crowley County DUI Arrest

Your first call should NOT be to the Crowley County Correctional Facility at 6564 Hwy 96, the state prison. That's a common mistake. Instead, focus on securing your release from the Crowley County Jail at 110 East 6th St in Ordway. The average processing time after arrest is 1-4 hours, but this can be delayed if the on-duty dispatcher is handling other emergencies.

Posting Bail and Jail Release

Bail is set according to the 16th Judicial District’s bond schedule. If you're a Crowley County resident with no prior record, you might be eligible for a Personal Recognizance (PR) bond, allowing release without posting cash. However, if you're from out of town (common for travelers on Hwy 96 or Hwy 71), a cash or surety bond is more likely.

Cash bonds are accepted directly at the jail window. Bring exact change or a cashier's check/money order payable to the "Crowley County Combined Court." If the bond is $1,000, consider paying the full amount in cash rather than using a bail bondsman. While a bondsman charges a non-refundable 15% fee (typically $150 on a $1,000 bond), posting cash allows you to recover the full amount (minus court fees) at the end of your case.

Be aware of shift changes at the Sheriff's Office, which occur around 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Avoid arriving to post bond right before these times, as processing halts for approximately 30-45 minutes.

Since there are few, if any, bail bondsmen physically located in Ordway, they will likely travel from Pueblo, La Junta, or Rocky Ford. This can add 1-2 hours to the release process.

Understanding the Crowley County Court System

Your case will be heard at the Crowley Combined Court in Ordway. This court handles both County (misdemeanor) and District (felony) cases. Arrive at least 30 minutes early for court appearances, as security screening is required, and the lobby can become congested. Remember that all weapons, including pocket knives, are prohibited. Phones are allowed but must be silenced.

A critical detail to remember: the court strictly observes a lunch hour closure from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM daily. The doors may be locked, and phones will roll to voicemail. Avoid arriving at 11:55 AM expecting to file paperwork. Plan your arrival for 1:15 PM or 8:30 AM.

DUI-Specific Challenges in Crowley County

Crowley County presents unique challenges due to its rural nature. The county lacks a local DMV hearing office and approved Interlock Ignition Device (IID) installers. You'll need to travel to La Junta (Otero County) or Pueblo for these services.

While sobriety checkpoints are rare, the intersection of Hwy 96 and Hwy 71 near Ordway is a known "choke point" for law enforcement. Colorado State Patrol (CSP) troopers often conduct saturation patrols in this area and near the Crowley County Correctional Facility during shift changes (approximately 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM).

Impounded Vehicles

If your vehicle was impounded, it's likely at a local tow yard in Ordway. Contact the Crowley County Sheriff's Office for the specific location. Be polite and patient with tow lot staff. Cash is often preferred for payment.

Potential Outcomes and Programs

The 16th Judicial District Attorney offers an Adult Diversion Program, typically for first-time offenders with no aggravating factors (low BAC, no accident). Successful completion of the program can lead to dismissal of charges. While Crowley County doesn't have a dedicated DUI Court, high-risk offenders are managed through Probation (Track F).

Weekend Advisements

If you are arrested on a Saturday night and cannot bond out immediately, you will likely remain in jail until Sunday morning. The 16th Judicial District conducts weekend advisements, often via video link with a judge in Otero or Bent County, typically around 9:30 AM.

Key Contacts and Next Steps

For probation information, contact the Crowley County Probation Office at 719-384-5973, located in Room 302 of the courthouse. After release, your next step should be to obtain a copy of the police report from the Crowley County Sheriff's Office to understand the evidence against you.