Critics Slam Low-Cost Maryland Bonds

BALTIMORE, MD - In general, defendants must pay a bondsman 10 percent of their bail to get out of jail. Many Maryland bondsmen are offering discounts where defendants pay as little as 1 percent of their bond amounts. Critics, state regulators and city prosecutors decry the practice, but bondsmen note that such discounts have become routine in this highly competitive industry. Del. Robert A. Costa, an Anne Arundel County Republican, is calling for new legislation to make it a misdemeanor for bondsmen who do not collect 10 percent of the bond amount upfront. He has temporarily withdrawn the bill to research more.

Dog’s TV Show to Resume

HONOLULU, HI - TV reality show star and bounty hunter Duane "Dog" Chapman is slated to reprise his popular A&E show Dog the Bounty Hunter after the show was yanked from the air following Chapman’s racist comments. Chapman was caught using a racial slur while talking about his son's African-American girlfriend during a phone conversation that was taped. Chapman has apologized for the incident. So far, no air date has been announced.

Trinidad and Tobago Call for Bounty Hunters

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO - In Trinidad and Tobago, Opposition Leader Basdeo Panday is calling for bounty hunters and watch groups in all communities. He hopes this will help cut down on the skyrocketing crime rates in the country. Panday suggested bounty hunters a few years ago, but his idea was turned down then. He has re-introduced the idea, saying now is the right time for the measure. Panday has noted that the police seem unable to protect citizens, meaning that citizens and professionals will have to work together.

Bail Bondsman Helps San Jose Authorities

SAN JOSE, CA - An unidentified bail bondsman was looking for an evading fugitive. In doing so, he assisted San Jose authorities in finding an indoor marijuana growing operation. The bondsman was peeking into a home where someone who had skipped out on bail had once lived. Inside the home, he spotted marijuana plants. He called police about the discovery and police found more than 1,300 plants. Toan Thi Phan and Long Giang La were booked in Santa Clara County Jail.

Bail Bondsman Makes Big Arrest

BAKERSFIELD, CA - An unnamed bondsman from People's Bail Bonds in Van Nuys arrested Los Angeles attorney Daniel Willsey, wanted for allegedly causing a car accident that killed Kern County sheriff's deputy William "Joe" Hudnall Jr. Willsey is charged with possession of a controlled substance, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and carrying a concealed firearm. The trial will begin March 24.