Times when bail bonds is not an option

You may think it contradictory to say there are times when bail bonds is not an option from a company that specializes in this service.  However, there are situations where there really is no choice for an inmate at Santa Barbara County Jail.  The three circumstances  that will be discussed in this article are immigration holds, probation violation and parolees.

inmate being friskedImmigration Holds

If an immigrant comes to the United States without proper documentation and gets arrested, there is high probability that he or she will be detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.  ICE, as it is commonly known, is responsible for governing immigration to “promote homeland security and public safety.”  It was created in 2003 and has personnel who work with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department.  If someone has been arrested for a crime and cannot show legal proof, then they will likely be deported from the country.  Unfortunately, this means that bail bonds is not an option.  As soon as it would post at the jail, that person would immediately be placed in the custody of ICE agents.

Probation

Another situation where bail bonds in Santa Barbara is not an option is when someone is on probation.  Of course, there is a distinction.  Informal, unsupervised probation is one thing.  In these instances, a bail amount may be set for the existing case.  However, if an inmate is on supervised probation by the Santa Barbara County Probation Department, then it is possible that he or she will be held until their agent is notified or goes to court.   In these cases, it is best that a friend or family member try to contact the probation department to see if there is some way to get a hold lifted if they do not wish to wait until the inmate sees a judge.

parole reviewParole

The final scenario when bail bonds may not be an option is when an inmate is on parole.  If someone has served time for a felony in the State of California or in Federal Prison, then a hold is automatically placed on an inmate if they are currently on parole.  In California, the parole system is run by the Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO).  If it is a Federal level crime, then United States Parole Commission is the entity to contact.  In either case, a parole hold is one of the most difficult to get lifted.  The best method is to call the parole officer responsible for the inmate and ask what can be done.

Bail Bonds is Possible

Of course, there are other special circumstances where bail bonds in Santa Barbara is not an option.  Most of the time, however, it is possible for anyone who is not serving time on a sentence.  It never hurts to ask by calling a bail agent.

Back to School Bail Bonds Education

Now that Santa Barbara City College is in session and the University of California Santa Barbara students setting up for their fall 2016 schedule, it’s time for back to school bail bonds education.  What does that mean exactly?  Well, many students will be experiencing freedom for the first time.  Some may find themselves having too good of a time.  In certain instances, young adults wind up in jail because they break the law.

Jail-Vs-SchoolWhy Bail Bonds Matter

That’s why it’s prudent to be educated about bail bonds.  Each county has their own schedule that sets the amount needed for a particular crime.  At Santa Barbara County Jail, you could either call to the records division in order to obtain this information or a local bail bonds in Santa Barbara.  Agents would be able to find out the charges and if a bond would be needed.  In some cases, you may not need one.

Finding the Right Company

If dealing with a reputable company like Absolutely Affordable Bail Bonds, they would be able to let you know if it is necessary to use their services.  Information is free, so never feel obligated that you have to pay someone to perform this service for you.  If they do try to charge you, then it’s best to look for help elsewhere or call the jail directly.

Students at both Santa Barbara City College and the University of California Santa Barbara tend to gravitate towards Isla Vista.  This is a popular area where they rent apartments and party.  The Foot Patrol, who are a division of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s division, and UCSB Police operate in the area and enforce the law.  Most of the deputies have been working at this facility for many years.  As such, they have intimate knowledge of how students tend to behave.  Many times they try to understand the situation to avoid making any arrests.  However, there are circumstances where it is their duty to place someone in custody.

Rolling DoubleWhat to do if Arrested

If you or someone you know has been arrested, then it’s always less stressful when you know a little about the situation.  That is why education about Santa Barbara bail bonds is so important.  When incarcerated, you are given two free phone calls.  One should be to a close friend or family member, while the other should be someone you can consult about what’s happening.  Knowledge is power and the more you know, the better off you will be in the end.

Bail bonds as a Mother’s Day gift idea

A gift idea you may want to think about getting mom for Mother’s Day is bail bonds.  What better way to celebrate than to have loved ones together?  Sure, flowers are what most people buy.  However, for those in Santa Barbara County Jail, this could be even more special.

Happy Mother's Day
Happy Mother’s Day

Finding bail bonds in Santa Barbara is just a phone call away.  When calling an agent, just mention that it’s for mom.  Undoubtedly that person will go out of their way to make sure that the transaction is done quickly and smoothly.

If bail bonds isn’t an option

For some inmates, bail bonds is not an option.  Those who have been sentenced to serve will not have an opportunity to get released.  There are other options to bring the family together.  Visitation is one means in which mom can visit her son or daughter.  It’s best to call Santa Barbara County Jail to find out the exact days and times the inmate can be visited.  The phone number to the Sheriff’s department custody records is 805-681-4260.

If bail bonds is not an option for Mother's Day, pay a visit instead
If bail bonds is not an option for Mother’s Day, pay a visit instead

If a bail bond or visiting are both out of the question, then maybe a simple phone call will do.  Inmates are only able to call collect to local phone numbers.  Just bear in mind that the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s department does not operate the system.  A company named IC Solutions is who you need to contact to make arrangements to receive calls.

Calling collect from Santa Barbara County to mom
Calling collect from Santa Barbara County to mom

Perhaps money is an issue.  Another way to have mom get in touch with her son or daughter is to write a letter or send a postcard.  Just be sure to properly address the correspondence, which must include the inmate’s name and booking number.  They do not allow packages or any kind of food, so double check to see what’s is and isn’t allowed by calling the jail.

What if Mom is the one in jail?

Of course, some mothers may be the ones who are the ones incarcerated.  What better way to show mom you love her by getting a bail bonds company to help.  It may be more affordable than you think.  Just call a local Santa Barbara bail bond agency to find out what they can do for your mother.

Don't let mom stay in jail!
Don’t let mom stay in jail!

Home security during the Holiday season in Santa Barbara

Santa Theft ChargesHome security during the Holiday season in Santa Barbara is an issue that should be taken seriously.  Thieves know that Christmas is a very popular occasion for gifts.  Oftentimes, these presents are valuable merchandise that can be sold illegally by the unscrupulous characters.  In an effort to help you prevent this from happening, Absolutely Affordable Bail Bonds offers some tips to make your home more secure:

Santa Stick Up

  1. Check access areas around your property.  Santa Barbara is known for it’s beautiful Although trees and bushes provide added beauty to your home, they are also great hiding spots for nefarious characters.  Trees offer a natural ladder to gain access to either a 2nd floor or rooftop.
  2. Do you own a pet?  Doggy doors are another access point that many people don’t think about.  Although it may be too small for a human to enter, one can use tools to exploit this hole.
  3. Are you on Facebook or Twitter?  If so, be aware of what you say about your status.  Letting others know that you’ll be attending a party or going away on vacation is a no-no.  This tells burglars that no one will likely be home for a period of time.  In the modern age of social media, criminals have became very savvy.  If you plan on leaving the Santa Barbara area, only tell those who you trust.
  4. Be careful shopping online.  It seems everyone buys from Amazon, eBay or other retailers.  The issue is that you could expose yourself to identity theft.  Phishing is a popular method where you are sent an e-mail and the sender asks for personal information through a link.  Double check this link before clicking.  This isn’t just an issue for Santa Barbara residents, so let your friends and family know as well.
  5. One of the easiest home security methods is to make sure your windows and doors are locked.  This may seem obvious, but during this hectic time of year, people tend to be forgetful.  Statistics show that 40% of burglaries are the result of an unlocked door or open window.  One tip is to create a checklist of your doors and windows.  As you secure each one, you can mark them off.
  6. Bright lights keeps burglars at bay.  Shadows are a thieves best friend.  Motion detector lighting is excellent for illumination and saves electricity.  Timers are another option as well.  Just be sure to alternate times if possible.
  7. Some residents of Santa Barbara love to show off their Christmas trees by keeping their curtains open for all to see.  This is like a flashing advertisement to burglars who may be in the area.  It’s best to keep your curtains closed.  Home security is more important than bragging rights.
  8. The Holidays are a time for getting to know others.  Next door neighbors are great at helping with security.  They can keep on eye on things while you’re away.  In return, you can do the same for them.  Nothing like getting to know your fellow Santa Barbara neighbor.
  9. Most people tend to get newspapers and magazines digitally nowadays.  However, if you’re still into getting physical media in the mail or on your doorstep, then pause your subscriptions and hold deliveries.  Your local Santa Barbara area post office can assist you with this process.  Alternatively, you can ask your neighbor if they can get your mail, packages, and/or newspapers while away.

Santa Mob BossThe Holiday season in Santa Barbara is a wondrous time of year.  It’s also a time to be vigilant with home security.  While officers and deputies from the police and sheriff’s departments will be on high alert, it starts with you first and foremost.

Santa in JailIf you do know someone who has been arrested for these types of charges, remember that people are innocent until proven guilty.  It’s always a good idea to deal with a local Santa Barbara bail bonds agency.  Happy Holidays to you and your families.

Theft during Holiday shopping in Santa Barbara

Prevent theft during the Holiday season in Santa Barbara by using a few simple steps.  This time of year is meant to be joyous.  However, there are some out there who engage in criminal mischief and are looking to steal the things you bought.

Absolutely Affordable Bail Bonds has been doing business in Santa Barbara since 1969.  During this time, we have seen a number of unfortunate situations occur.  There are some things you can do to help avoid any heartache:

  1. Park in an area with lots of lights.  Darkness is a thief’s best friend.
  2. When going to the parking lot, be wary of your surroundings.  Have a clean line of sight while carrying your bags and be mindful of suspicious looking characters that may be nearby.
  3. When making purchases, it’s best to use credit or debit cards.  Cash is very attractive to thieves and cannot be traced.
  4. Keep your purse or wallet secure at all times.  Leaving either in a shopping cart or stroller is not a good idea.
  5. If you need to offload a bunch of goods in your car or truck, it’s best to put them in a location that cannot be seen.  Trunks are best, but if you have an SUV, then in the back underneath a blanket is another idea.
  6. When your shopping day is done and you decide to leave for home, be sure to lock your vehicle doors as soon as you get inside.
  7. Do not hesitate to contact security or local law enforcement if you suspect something is amiss.  Whether it be a shady looking character or some type of illicit activity, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

On the other side of the situation, if you or someone you know has been arrested for theft, then it’s good to know that bail bonds is an option.  A person is innocent until proven guilty in the United States.

When someone does get arrested, in the local area they are taken to Santa Barbara County Jail.  This is the main housing facility for the county.  The Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Department is in charge of running the operations.

Additionally, if you or someone you know does become incarcerated for a false arrest, a bail bond will help you fight the case from the outside.  It’s difficult to defend yourself when in custody.

The Holiday Season in Santa Barbara is a time for family and joy.  However, situations happen in life that are sometimes beyond one’s control.  In these instances, it’s always good to know a local bail bonds in Santa Barbara.

What does bail bonds have to do with Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving and bail bonds? It may seem odd to consider it upon first glance.  However, if you really think about it, there could be much to be thankful for during the long holiday weekend.  There may be situation in which a bail bond is necessary.  Sometimes things happen that you don’t necessarily anticipate.

Thanksgiving turkey in jail
Don’t be this turkey!

Thanksgiving weekend is a long break for the Santa Barbara County Superior Court system.  As such, getting arrested on the Tuesday or Wednesday before the actual holiday will result in an extended stay in county jail.  A person might actually be in custody for up to five days without seeing a judge.  For many families, this would be devastating.

In addition, Thanksgiving weekend is a time of heightened alert for law enforcement personnel.  The California Highway Patrol, Santa Barbara Police and County Sheriff’s officials will be very wary of criminal activity.  Driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substance are just the tip of the iceberg.

Black Friday means plenty of shoppers running from store to store.  Many people do not take the time to properly secure their merchandise, thereby affording opportunities for thieves to take advantage.  Stolen goods is a problem during this peak shopping period.

Santa Barbara County Jail will be especially busy, so being in custody will not be a pleasant experience.  Not that being incarcerated is a vacation, but with overcrowding things can get extremely stressful.  Processing times for bail bonds may be prolonged due to this situation.

Thanksgiving is a time for families to gather and eat great food.  If a friend or family members gets arrested, that would surely dampen the mood.  The great thing about a bail bond is that the person will be given an opportunity to spend quality time free from custody.  That individual would surely know the meaning of giving thanks indeed.

Absolutely Affordable Bail Bonds will be open everyday throughout the Thanksgiving weekend.  So, if you’re in the Santa Barbara area, they are ready and willing to help in your time of need.  And, as always, they are happy to offer free bail advice with no obligation whatsoever.  Remember that Thanksgiving is a time for family, not jail.

Expect heavy law enforcement in Isla Vista during Halloween 2015

If you plan to party hard for Halloween in Isla Vista, be sure that you do so safely.  Visitors from all over California and other areas will increase the weekend population dramatically in the local area.  Authorities from several agencies will work jointly to ensure that the law will be upheld.  This includes the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department, University of California Police Department, as well as the California Highway Patrol.

Expect lots of law enforcement during Halloween
Expect lots of law enforcement during Halloween

Kelly Hoover, a spokesperson from the Sheriff’s office, has indicated that “we’re prepared for a large turnout” due to the fact that Halloween falls on a Saturday in 2015.  Interestingly, there will actually be a lower number of law enforcement assigned to the area.  She states, “We are seeing a culture change in Isla Vista with the mentality of not inviting out-of-towners, and out-of-towners realizing it’s not the party place it used to be.”

Many local bail bonds agencies in Santa Barbara will be available to assist for those who do get arrested.  However, according to Hoover, there has been a decline in the number of arrests and citations.

From 6:00 pm until 7:00 am on Friday and Saturday, there will be special festival ordinance in effect for the surrounding community.  This means no amplified music and vehicles will be prohibited from entering Del Playa Drive.  Furthermore, barricades will be erected around Isla Vista to prevent drivers from entering certain streets beginning October 30 at 4:00 pm.  People are permitted to leave, however.

California Highway Patrol officers will be on the lookout for people driving under the influence.  If arrested, most of the time intoxicated drivers are detained until sober and then released with a citation.  However, if someone is involved in an accident or is a repeat offender, then that individual will need a bail bond.

In addition to UCSB Police officers and Sheriff’s deputies, the Santa Barbara Police Department will be standing by in the event things get out of hand.  The Santa Barbara County Jail is also going to increase staff to deal with the higher number of arrests during the weekend as well.

If you plan to attend Halloween in Isla Vista, it would be a good idea to remember that bail bonds in Santa Barbara is always an option.  Most companies offer free advice. For further information about the bail bonds process, you can look at this video:  How Bail Works.

Finding bail bonds in Santa Barbara is a treat during Halloween

Halloween in Isla Vista
Halloween in Isla Vista

What does Santa Barbara bail bonds have to do with Halloween?  Well, if you’re one of the many part goers who will be out and about in the downtown area or Isla Vista, then this it might be a good idea to keep a local agent in mind.  Lots of mischief takes place during this period.  And, with Halloween taking place on a Saturday, things are sure to be lively indeed.

Both the Santa Barbara Police and Sheriff’s Departments will be on high alert.  There are a large number of people who tend to drink alcohol to excess.  This is especially true in the downtown clubs and all over Isla Vista.  Students from the University of California Santa Barbara and City College will be everywhere enjoying the festivities.  There tends to be a higher number of arrests, hence the potential need for bail bonds.

Most of the time, people get a warning or are given a citation for being intoxicated.  However, sometimes situations occurs where suspects are detained for various criminal behavior.  Depending on the nature of the crime and how serious it turns out, bail bonds is one option to consider.

The Santa Barbara County Jail is located at 4436 Calle Real.  It is located approximately half way between Goleta and downtown Santa Barbara.  Most arrestees will be transported to this facility for processing.  It is also the place where bail bonds are posted for the entire county of Santa Barbara.

If you get arrested, then it’s a good idea to call a local agency where they can offer free advice about your particular situation.  Have a safe and happy Halloween.

Officials at Santa Barbara County Jail Re-thinking Inmate Release Policy

Santa Barbara County JailReport by Santa Barbara County Grand Jury Points out Several Issues

by Jae Brattain | posted 02.11.2014

In a report by the Santa Barbara County Grand Jury, members point out problems with the release system currently in place by the Sheriff’s Department.  One of the main issues is when inmates are released during the night.  Since the jail is far from public transportation options in terms of walking distance, it is difficult to find a ride.  Deputies were not telling inmates how to find transportation either verbally or in writing.

Santa Barbara County Jail is located on a hill away from commercial businesses.  At night, it could be especially problematic because Calle Real is not as well lit as many residential or business streets.  With an average of 20 to 40 releases in a 24-hour period, many are released at night.  The grand jury report indicates that there was approximately nine releases between the hours of 11:00 pm and 6:00 am.

The current policy mandates that if an individual is let go during late night hours, the person should be told of the option to stay on the premises until the morning.  Either the individual can sit in the jail lobby area or on benches located outside.  In both cases, the released inmate would not be charged with trespassing by Sheriff’s deputies.  Nevertheless, there is no exact policy in place as to what is being told to a released inmate.

Inside the jail lobby are only two plastic seats

Another issue problematic to the situation is that the jail lobby is devoid of any real seating.  Currently there are two plastic chairs attached to each other, which sits toward the left of the exit door from the detention area.  There are restrooms in the lobby, as well as a drinking fountain.  However, the area can best be described as spartan.

According to Custody Operations Chief Deputy Laz Salinas, the Sheriff’s Department is working on solutions to remedy the issues pointed out in the report by the grand jury.  One possible answer is to have officials from Santa Barbara County Superior Court widen the time frame in which an inmate can be released.  By doing so, it would help better fit public transportation schedules.

Late night releases are especially difficult for individuals that are either mentally ill or have drug and alcohol addiction.  Suzanne Riordan, who is director of the organization Families ACT!, knows first hand of the problem.  Her son had issues with drug addiction and said that her son was once released during the night with only his undershorts.  He passed away of an overdose in 2005.

Santa Barbara Bail Bonds agents also know of the issues.  The jail staff releases inmates during all hours of the night when posting a bond.  Agents do not know if an individual has mental health problems or drug and alcohol addiction if they do not speak directly with the inmate.  In many cases, they deal only with friends and family members who may not disclose these issues.

In some instances, jailers have the option to hold someone for 12-hours past a release date if they feel the individuals safety is in question.  They can also direct someone to Crisis and Recovery Emergency Services, which is under the Santa Barbara County Department of Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Services.

One suggestion that grand jury offered was to use a program model after Orange County.  It is privately funded by The Society of St. Vincent de Paul.  Essentially, a motor home is stationed by volunteers from 10:00 pm to 3:00 am.  Released inmates are offered hot beverages, snacks, use of a cell phone, and transportation schedules.

According to Salinas, the jail staff are working to develop something similar in Santa Barbara.  It would provide a temporary safe haven to help inmates transition back into society.  No word was given about the time frame of when the program might start.

Sheriff’s Deputies Arrest Julius Perdomo and Sarah Pet for Drug Sales

(Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department photo)

Authorities Discover Huge Stash of Marijuana, Psilocybin Mushrooms and Cash

by Jae Brattain | posted 01.22.2014

Julius Perdomo

Julius Perdomo was driving through Isla Vista playing music loudly from his vehicle on Friday, January 17th.  Members of the Isla Vista Foot Patrol pulled him over and found a large quantity of marijuana inside the car.  They also discovered evidence of potential narcotic sales.  He was immediately arrested at the scene.

UCSB Police officers and Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s deputies assigned to the IVFP conducted further investigation of Perdomo.  The 25-year old male had a  girlfriend who stayed at his residence near the corner of Camino Del Sur and El Colegio Road.  Suspecting that the girlfriend might also be involved in the sales of narcotics, authorities were able to get a search warrant.

Sarah Pet, 23, was taken into custody after deputies discovered 58-pounds of marijuana, about one pound of psilocybin mushrooms, and approximately 1.5-ounces of concentrated cannabis.  Psilocybin mushrooms are also known on the streets as Shrooms, Magic Mushrooms, and Psychedelic Mushrooms.  This drug, which is ingested by individuals orally,  causes episodes of hallucinations and alters the users reality perception according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Sarah Pet

Deputies also found $17,000 cash, as well as two safe-deposit keys on the premises.  More search warrants were issued to inspect the safe-deposit boxes.

Authorities discovered an additional mountain of cash, in total about $93,000.  On Tuesday, January 21st, the bank accounts of the couple were also examined.  They found an extra $16,000 from that source.  In total, there was $127,000 seized.

Both Perdomo and Pet are being charged with possession of marijuana and psilocybin mushroom for sales.  They were taken to Santa Barbara County Jail.  The bail bond amount for Perdomo was set at $30,000.  Pet was released from custody on her own recognizance.