Chaffee County Bail Information

Chaffee County DUI: Understanding Bail and Vehicle Release

If you've been arrested for DUI in Chaffee County, Colorado, you're likely facing immediate concerns about getting released from jail and retrieving your vehicle. The process can be complicated by the county's geography and specific law enforcement procedures. This guide provides actionable information to help you navigate these challenges.

Initial Steps After a Chaffee County DUI Arrest

The first thing to understand is that Chaffee County's judicial infrastructure is centralized in Salida. This means that even if you're arrested in Buena Vista by the Buena Vista Police Department (BVPD), you'll be transported approximately 25 miles south to the Chaffee County Detention Center in Salida for booking. Booking typically takes 1-2 hours, but release processing can add another 2-4 hours, depending on staffing.

Understanding Bail in Chaffee County

The 11th Judicial District sets the bail schedule. Here's what you can expect:

• DUI (1st Offense): $1,000 Cash, Surety Bond, or Personal Recognizance (PR) bond.
• DUI (2nd Offense / Prior Convictions): $1,000 - $3,000. Be aware that a second offense often triggers a mandatory condition of Monitored Sobriety, potentially requiring setup with a provider like Intervention Inc. before release.
• DWAI: $800.
• DUR (Driving Under Restraint - Alcohol): $3,000.

Payment Options:

• Cash: Must be exact change.
• Credit Card: Accepted via third-party processors like AllPaid/GovPay, but expect a service fee of approximately 3.5%.
• Bondsman: A surety bond requires a non-refundable premium, typically 10-15% of the bond amount.

Important: The Chaffee County Detention Center adheres to a "Sober Release" mandate. You will not be released until your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is at a safe level (typically 0.00% or below 0.02%). If your BAC is high (e.g., 0.18%), you could be held for 8-12 hours solely to metabolize the alcohol. Don't have family drive to the jail until you've confirmed you're cleared for release.

Vehicle Impound and Release in Chaffee County

Your vehicle is likely impounded following a DUI arrest. Here's what you need to know to get it back:

Tow Companies:

• A-1 Towing & Recovery: Generally used by the Salida Police Department (SPD) and the Chaffee County Sheriff's Office (CCSO).
• Gunsmoke Towing: Also frequently used.

Colorado State Patrol (CSP) troopers may use other regional rotation tows if local providers are unavailable or if specialized recovery is required. Always confirm the tow destination with the trooper or by calling CSP dispatch.

The "Police Hold":

The arresting agency often places a "Police Hold" on the vehicle if it contains evidence or is subject to asset forfeiture laws. The tow yard cannot release the vehicle until this hold is lifted.

Steps to Release Your Vehicle:

1. Do NOT go to the tow yard first.
2. Contact the Arresting Agency: Call the Records Division of the agency that made the arrest to verify if there's a hold on your vehicle.

• Salida Police Department (SPD): 719-530-2600
• Chaffee County Sheriff's Office (CCSO): 719-539-2596
• Colorado State Patrol (CSP): *CSP

1. Obtain Release: If a hold exists, you must physically go to the police station or sheriff's office, show ID/ownership, pay any administrative release fees (often around $150), and obtain a hard-copy "Release Slip".
2. Go to Tow Yard: Present the Release Slip to the tow operator.

Required Documents at the Tow Yard:

• Valid Driver's License (or temporary permit if your DL was seized).
• Current Vehicle Registration (or title).
• Proof of Valid Insurance (must be current; if expired, the car cannot be driven off the lot and must be towed out).
• Cash/Payment for all fees.

Third-Party Vehicle Release:

If you're still in jail, a spouse or friend cannot simply pick up the car. You must provide a Notarized Letter of Authorization. This letter must:

• State your full name.
• Authorize the specific third party (full name) to retrieve the vehicle.
• Identify the vehicle by Make, Model, License Plate, and VIN.
• Be signed and notarized.

Fax or email this document to the tow yard in advance to ensure it meets their specific criteria.

Important Considerations:

• Lunch Hour Blackout: Rural businesses, including tow yards, often close strictly for lunch (e.g., 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM). Always call ahead to confirm the staff is present.
• Cash is King: While credit cards are technically accepted, bringing cash is the only way to guarantee a swift transaction and avoid card surcharges.
• Snowbird Laws: In winter, vehicles left on the shoulder can be towed for snow removal operations. If you leave your car at the scene of arrest, it is highly likely to be towed rapidly if snow is forecasted.

Next Steps

After securing your release and retrieving your vehicle, your next step should be to contact a qualified DUI attorney in Chaffee County. They can help you understand your rights and navigate the complex legal process ahead.

Remember to call ahead to the tow yard to confirm their hours and payment options. A-1 Towing & Recovery is located at and Gunsmoke Towing is located at . Knowing these details can save you valuable time and frustration.