Crowley County Bail Information

If you've been arrested for DUI in Crowley County, Colorado, understanding the local legal landscape is crucial. Unlike larger cities, Crowley County operates with a "rural justice" system, presenting unique challenges for DUI defendants. This guide provides actionable information to navigate the process, from posting bail to understanding court procedures.

Posting Bail in Crowley County: What You Need to Know

The Crowley County Jail is located at 110 East 6th St, Ordway, CO. If you or a loved one is arrested for DUI, this is where they will be taken for booking. The average processing time is 1-4 hours, but delays can occur if the on-duty dispatcher or deputy is responding to other calls.

Here's what you need to do to post bail:

1. Determine the Bail Amount: Bail amounts are set according to the 16th Judicial District’s bond schedules. Contact the jail directly or have your attorney inquire to determine the exact amount.
2. Choose Your Payment Method:

• Cash Bond: Accepted directly at the jail window. Bring exact change or a cashier's check/money order made out to the Crowley County Combined Court.
• Surety Bond (Bail Bondsman): There are few, if any, bail bondsmen physically located in Ordway. They travel from Pueblo, La Junta, or Rocky Ford, adding 1-2 hours of travel time to the release process.

1. Post Bond: Present the cash, cashier's check, or surety bond paperwork to the jail staff at 110 East 6th St.

Important Considerations:

• PR Bond Availability: Personal Recognizance (PR) bonds are frequently granted to Crowley County residents with no prior history. Out-of-county defendants are considered higher flight risks and usually require cash or surety.
• Shift Change Blackouts: Shift changes at the Sheriff's Office typically occur at 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. During these 30-45 minute windows, movement of inmates and processing of paperwork stops for briefing and headcount. Do not arrive to post bond exactly at 5:55 PM. You will wait until 6:45 PM.
• The "Prison" Misdirection: The Crowley County Correctional Facility (a private prison) is located at 6564 Hwy 96, not the jail. Verify the address before attempting to contact the facility.
• Cash vs. Bondsman: For a $1,000 bond, the fee to a bondsman is typically $150 (15%). If you have the full $1,000 cash, it is often faster and cheaper to post it yourself, as you get the full amount back at the end of the case (minus court fees), whereas the $150 is non-refundable.
• Weekend Bond Hearings: The 16th Judicial District conducts weekend advisements, often via video link with a judge who may be sitting in Otero or Bent County. These typically happen on Sunday mornings around 9:30 AM. If you are arrested Saturday night and do not bond out immediately via the schedule, you will likely sit until Sunday morning.

Navigating the Crowley County Court System

The Crowley Combined Court, handling both County (misdemeanor) and District (felony) cases, is located in Ordway.

Key Information:

• Address: 301 Main Street, Ordway, CO 81063
• Phone: (719) 267-3531
• Clerk's Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Important Considerations:

• The "Lunch Hour" Lockout: The court clerks strictly observe the 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM closure. The doors may be locked, and phones will roll to voicemail. Do not arrive at 11:55 AM expecting to file paperwork. Plan your arrival for 1:15 PM or 8:30 AM.
• Security & Arrival: There is security screening at the entrance. Prohibited items include all weapons (even pocket knives) and often cameras. Arrive 30 minutes early.
• Phone Policy: Phones are generally allowed but must be SILENT. Using them for photos or recording is strictly prohibited.
• Specialized Programs: The 16th Judicial District does not have a dedicated "DUI Court" docket in Crowley County. High-risk offenders are managed via Probation (Track F). The 16th JD District Attorney offers an Adult Diversion Program, usually reserved for first-time offenders with no aggravating factors (low BAC, no accident).
• Probation Office: Located in the same building (Room 302). Phone: 719-384-5973.

Vehicle Impound

If your vehicle was impounded after your DUI arrest, it was likely towed to a local impound lot in Ordway. Contact the Crowley County Sheriff's Office for specific information on the location and release procedures. Nominal filing fees may apply. Bring cash, as internet connectivity for card readers can be unreliable.

Next Steps

After posting bail, your next step is to contact an attorney experienced in Colorado DUI law. While the Crowley County court system may seem less complex than those in larger cities, the nuances of local procedures and the close scrutiny of cases by the District Attorney's office make experienced legal representation essential.

For information on upcoming court dates or case status, contact the Crowley Combined Court Clerk's office at (719) 267-3531.