Williams County Bail Information

Navigating a DUI arrest in Williams County, Ohio, starts with a harsh reality: a $100 booking fee awaits you at the Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio (CCNO) in Stryker, followed by a daily "pay-to-stay" charge of $66.09, immediately deducted from your commissary account. This article provides a practical guide to understanding bail and related logistical challenges following a DUI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired - OVI) arrest in Williams County.

Understanding Bail in Williams County DUI Cases

Bail in Williams County is determined by the Bryan Municipal Court. While the exact amount varies depending on the specifics of your case, including prior offenses and the severity of the current charge, it's crucial to understand the purpose of bail. Bail is essentially a promise to the court that you will appear for all scheduled hearings. Factors influencing the bail amount include:

• Prior Criminal Record: A history of prior offenses, especially OVIs, will likely result in a higher bail amount.
• Severity of the Current Charge: If the current OVI involves an accident, injury, or high blood alcohol content (BAC), the bail will likely be higher.
• Flight Risk: The court will assess whether you are likely to flee the jurisdiction. Ties to the community, such as family, employment, and property ownership, can mitigate this concern.

Contact the Bryan Municipal Court at (419) 636-4224 to inquire about specific bail procedures.

Immediate Aftermath: Vehicle Impound and Towing

The roadside aftermath of an OVI arrest in Williams County often involves the immediate impound of your vehicle. Because your driver's license is immediately suspended if you fail or refuse a chemical test (Administrative License Suspension), the arresting officer will arrange a non-consent tow. John's Towing in Bryan is a primary towing service used by law enforcement.

Actionable Steps:

1. Locate Your Vehicle: Contact the arresting agency (Ohio State Highway Patrol Post 20 in Defiance, Williams County Sheriff's Office, or Bryan Police Department) to confirm where your vehicle was towed.
2. Understand the Fees: PUCO regulates towing fees. Expect to pay around $144 for the tow itself, plus daily storage fees.
3. Avoid the "Lunch Break" Trap: Call John's Towing before going to their lot to ensure someone is available to process the release. Their number is likely available through the arresting agency.
4. The "License Trap": The registered owner needs to be present with a valid photo ID and proof of ownership (title or registration). However, since your license is likely suspended, bring a licensed driver to drive the vehicle off the lot.
5. Police Hold Release: If the police have placed a hold on the vehicle (common in felony OVI cases or repeat offenses), you must obtain a vehicle release form from the arresting agency before going to the tow yard.
6. The "Half-Fee Drop Rule": If sober passengers are present before the vehicle is fully towed onto the roadway, they can request the vehicle be released for half the towing fee (around $72). This is under Ohio Revised Code 4513.60 and 4513.601.

Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio (CCNO)

Following your arrest, you will likely be taken to the CCNO in Stryker. Be prepared for the $100 booking fee and the $66.09 daily "pay-to-stay" charge. These fees are automatically deducted from any funds you have in your commissary account.

SCRAM as a Logistical Bridge

Given the limited public transportation in Williams County, a suspended driver faces significant challenges. One potential solution is the use of a mobile SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring) device. Regional vendors offer SCRAM installation services, which can be presented to the court as a means of demonstrating sobriety and potentially regaining limited driving privileges. This is especially important given the rural nature of the county and the lack of public transportation.

Repeat Offenders and Vehicle Immobilization

Ohio has a high rate of repeat OVI offenders. If you have two or more prior OVI convictions within the past ten years, your vehicle is subject to mandatory immobilization. In these cases, the arresting officer will seize the vehicle.

Key Takeaway

The logistical and financial burdens following a DUI arrest in Williams County are significant. Understanding the immediate steps, from vehicle impound to navigating the CCNO, is crucial. Contact the Bryan Municipal Court at (419) 636-4224 to understand bail procedures and court dates.