Wyandot County Bail Information

Navigating Bail After a DUI Arrest in Wyandot County, Ohio: A Detailed Guide

If you've been arrested for Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI, commonly known as DUI) in Wyandot County, Ohio, understanding the bail process is crucial. Unlike larger metropolitan areas, Wyandot County presents unique logistical challenges. This guide provides a detailed overview of what to expect, focusing on the practical steps you need to take to secure your release and navigate the initial stages of your case.

Immediate Steps After Arrest: Vehicle Impound and Location

The immediate aftermath of an OVI arrest involves your vehicle being impounded. In Wyandot County, this is handled by private towing companies, not a centralized municipal lot. Knowing where your car is towed is the first critical step. The Wyandot County Sheriff’s Office and Upper Sandusky Police Department utilize a rotation of approved companies, primarily:

• Ed's 24 Hour Service: Located at 205 Commerce Way, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351. They can be reached at (419) 556-6127. Ed's is a heavy-duty recovery specialist, often used for commercial vehicles. Be sure to confirm your vehicle is at the Upper Sandusky lot, as they also service Findlay and Marion. They accept credit cards.
• Upper Sandusky Road Service: Lists two addresses: 110 Berry Street and 845 E Wyandot Ave, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351. Call (419-341-4027) to verify which lot holds your vehicle. They handle many passenger vehicle impounds.

Releasing Your Vehicle: The "Form 2255" and the Weekend Gap

Retrieving your vehicle requires navigating an administrative process. The tow yard cannot release your vehicle without a "Release Form" (often referred to as "Form 2255") from the arresting agency (Sheriff or Upper Sandusky PD) or a court order. This is an administrative hold, not a simple tow.

Crucially, if your arrest occurs on a Friday night, you likely cannot obtain the release paperwork until the Upper Sandusky Municipal Court opens on Monday morning at 8:00 AM. This "weekend gap" forces you to accrue a minimum of three days of storage fees, regardless of your ability to pay immediately.

To release your vehicle, you will need:

1. The "Release Form" from the arresting agency or a court order.
2. Payment for towing and storage fees. Be prepared with cash, as some operators may not accept credit cards.
3. A valid driver. Due to the Administrative License Suspension (ALS) triggered by an OVI arrest, you cannot drive the vehicle yourself. You must have a second person with a valid driver's license present to drive the vehicle off the lot. Operators will deny release if you arrive alone and attempt to drive away.

Posting Bail at the Wyandot County Jail: Location and Procedures

The Wyandot County Jail, located at 125 E Wyandot Avenue, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351, serves as the central processing point for OVI arrests. You can contact them at (419) 294-2362.

"Sober Release" Protocol: Even if eligible for a Personal Recognizance (PR) bond, you will not be released until your BAC drops below the legal limit or a fixed period (typically 8 hours) has elapsed. The jail also typically requires a sober adult to assume custody before releasing you, even after you are sober.

Monetary Bond: If a PR bond is denied, a monetary bond will be set. While the exact amount varies, the Upper Sandusky Municipal Court utilizes a standardized schedule. Bonds can be posted 24/7 at the Wyandot County Sheriff’s Department window. Accepted forms of payment include cash (exact change often required), money order, Visa, or Mastercard. Note that credit card transactions often incur a significant third-party processing fee.

The court may allow a "10% Bond," meaning you only need to post 10% of the total bond amount. For example, on a $1,500 bond, you would post $150.

Avoiding Logistical Pitfalls: Upper Sandusky vs. Sandusky

A common mistake is confusing Upper Sandusky (Wyandot County) with Sandusky (Erie County), located approximately 45 miles apart. The Upper Sandusky Municipal Court has jurisdiction over misdemeanors and traffic offenses for Wyandot County, including the villages of Carey, Nevada, Wharton, Kirby, and Sycamore. Misfiling documents or appearing at the wrong "Sandusky" court can result in a bench warrant for Failure to Appear (FTA).

Key Contact Information:

• Upper Sandusky Municipal Court: (419) 294-3800 option # 1. Address: 119 North Seventh Street, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351.
• Wyandot County Jail: (419) 294-2362. Address: 125 E Wyandot Avenue, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351.
• Ed's 24 Hour Service: (419) 556-6127. Address: 205 Commerce Way, Upper Sandusky, OH 43315.
• Upper Sandusky Road Service: (419-341-4027). Addresses: 110 Berry Street and 845 E Wyandot Ave, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351 (verify location before travel).

To search for your case information online, visit /recordSearch.php?k=searchForm8820. You can also make online payments at /payments.php?agencyNumber=8820.