Crowley County License Hearing Guide

Navigating a DUI Arrest in Crowley County, Colorado: A Local's Guide

If you've been arrested for DUI in Crowley County, Colorado, you're facing a unique set of challenges due to the county's rural nature and limited resources. Unlike larger cities, Crowley County operates on a "rural justice" system, requiring a specific understanding of local procedures. This guide provides actionable information to help you navigate the process effectively.

Understanding the Crowley County Landscape

Crowley County has a population of roughly 5,600, but a significant portion are incarcerated individuals at the Crowley County Correctional Facility (CCCF). This means the civilian population is much smaller, increasing law enforcement visibility. The county seat, Ordway, is where most legal proceedings occur. The Sheriff’s Office, County Court, District Court, and impound operations are all located within a few blocks of each other.

The county is bisected by State Highway 96 (East-West) and State Highway 71 (North-South), primary enforcement corridors for the Colorado State Patrol (CSP). Keep in mind that Crowley County lacks a local DMV hearing office and approved Interlock Ignition Device (IID) installers, requiring travel to La Junta (Otero County) or Pueblo.

Phase 1: Vehicle Impound and Release

If your vehicle was impounded, it's likely at the primary impound lot in Ordway. Contact the Crowley County Sheriff's Office for specific details about the impound location and release requirements. Be prepared to pay impound fees, which vary but can be several hundred dollars.

Actionable Tip: Bring cash to the impound lot. While they may accept cards, rural internet connectivity can be unreliable. Politeness is key; being respectful to the tow lot staff can expedite the release process.

Phase 2: Bail Bonds and Jail Release

The Crowley County Jail is located at 110 East 6th St, Ordway. The average processing time for release is 1-4 hours, but delays can occur if staff are busy with other calls. Personal Recognizance (PR) bonds are sometimes granted to Crowley County residents with no prior history, but out-of-county residents usually require cash or surety bonds.

Actionable Tip: If posting a cash bond, bring exact change or a cashier's check/money order made out to the Crowley County Combined Court.

If you need a bail bondsman, be aware that most travel from Pueblo, La Junta, or Rocky Ford, adding 1-2 hours to the release process. For a $1,000 bond, the fee to a bondsman is typically $150 (15%). If you have the full $1,000 in cash, posting it yourself is often faster and cheaper, as you'll receive the full amount back at the end of the case (minus court fees).

Important Note: Do not confuse the Crowley County Jail with the Crowley County Correctional Facility (CCCF), a private prison located at 6564 Hwy 96. The prison staff cannot access county jail records.

Actionable Tip: Avoid arriving to post bond near shift changes at the Sheriff's Office (6:00 AM and 6:00 PM), as processing stops for 30-45 minutes.

Weekend advisements are conducted via video link on Sunday mornings around 9:30 AM. If arrested on Saturday night and unable to bond out immediately, you'll likely remain in custody until Sunday morning.

Phase 3: Navigating the Crowley County Combined Court

The Crowley Combined Court handles both County (misdemeanor) and District (felony) cases. It's located in Ordway.

Actionable Tip: Be aware of the court's strict lunch hour closure from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. The doors may be locked, and phones will roll to voicemail. Plan your arrival accordingly.

Security screening is in place at the entrance. Prohibited items include weapons (even pocket knives) and cameras. Arrive 30 minutes early to allow time for screening. Phones are generally allowed but must be silent.

The 16th Judicial District Attorney offers an Adult Diversion Program, typically for first-time offenders with no aggravating factors. This allows for dismissal of charges upon completion of conditions.

Probation services are located in the same building, Room 302. The phone number is 719-384-5973.

Actionable Tip: If you are required to attend court, park on the street (Main St or 6th St) and avoid parking in the marked law enforcement spots directly in front of the Sheriff's entrance.

For specific questions regarding court dates, filing fees, or other administrative matters, contact the Crowley County Combined Court directly at 719-267-5246.