Williams County Court Process

An OVI arrest in Williams County, Ohio, can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare. The Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio (CCNO) in Stryker, where many arrestees are taken, immediately imposes a $100 booking fee and a $66.09 daily "pay-to-stay" tariff, extracted directly from commissary accounts. Navigating this system requires immediate and precise action.

Understanding the Williams County OVI Landscape

Williams County, nestled in the extreme northwestern corner of Ohio, presents unique challenges for those facing OVI charges. This predominantly rural county, with a population around 36,554, lacks robust public transportation. This means an Administrative License Suspension (ALS) following an OVI arrest can severely impact your ability to work, shop for groceries, or attend medical appointments.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP), along with the Williams County Sheriff's Office and the Bryan Police Department, actively enforce OVI laws. While the OSHP recorded 63 OVI arrests in Williams County in a recent year, the total number is higher when considering all agencies. Enforcement peaks between Friday and Sunday from 10:00 PM to 3:00 AM, aligning with statewide trends. Be especially vigilant during "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaigns, which occur in late summer (mid-August through Labor Day) and during the winter holidays (December 13th through January 1st).

Immediate Steps: Vehicle Impound and Towing

One of the most pressing concerns after an OVI arrest is retrieving your vehicle. Because your license is immediately suspended if you fail or refuse a breathalyzer, the arresting officer will likely order a non-consent tow. This triggers a cascade of fees and bureaucratic hurdles.

1Identify the Towing Company:

• John's Towing in Bryan is a primary towing service used by law enforcement.
• If your vehicle is seized due to felony OVI charges or a prior OVI conviction within the last six years, it may be held at a secured municipal or county impound lot operated by the Bryan Police Department or the Williams County Sheriff's Office. Contact the non-emergency dispatch line of the arresting agency to confirm the location.

2Understand the Fees:

• Towing fees are regulated by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO).
• While specific rates may vary, expect to pay around $144 for the initial tow.
• Daily storage fees will accrue rapidly, increasing the overall cost.

3Overcome the "License Trap":

• The registered owner must be present with a valid photo ID and proof of ownership (vehicle title or registration) to retrieve the vehicle.
• However, if the owner is under an ALS, they cannot legally drive the vehicle.
• Solution: Bring a licensed driver with you to drive the vehicle off the lot.

4Obtain a Police Release:

• The tow yard cannot release the vehicle without a release form from the arresting agency (Bryan PD or Williams County Sheriff's Office).
• Solution: Visit the agency headquarters to request and obtain a vehicle release form before going to the tow yard.

5The "Half-Fee Drop Rule":

• If sober passengers are present at the time of the arrest, Ohio law allows for a reduced fee.
• If the vehicle is hooked to the wrecker but not yet on the roadway, the towing service must release it upon payment of half the standard removal rate (approximately $72).
• Solution: Passengers should immediately assert this right and pay the drop fee on site.

6Avoid the "Lunch Break" Trap:

• Towing operations in rural areas may have limited staffing.
• Administrative personnel authorized to release vehicles may be unavailable during lunch (typically 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM).
• Solution: Call the towing company to confirm the presence of a release agent and schedule an arrival window.

Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio (CCNO)

If you are detained, you will likely be taken to the Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio (CCNO) in Stryker. Be aware of the immediate financial implications:

• Booking Fee: $100
• Daily "Pay-to-Stay" Tariff: $66.09, deducted from your commissary account.

Navigating the Bryan Municipal Court

The Bryan Municipal Court handles OVI cases in Williams County. Be aware of these rules:

• Mandatory Appearances: All OVI offenses require a mandatory court appearance.
• Cell Phone Ban: Cellular devices are strictly prohibited and will be confiscated at the courthouse.

"Gold Dust": SCRAM and Repeat Offenders

• SCRAM Devices: Mobile SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring) installations are available from regional vendors. This can be a vital tool for maintaining employment and fulfilling obligations while your license is suspended.
• Repeat Offenders: Ohio has a high rate of repeat OVI offenders. This can lead to inflexible and punitive stances from local prosecutors.

Vehicle Immobilization and Forfeiture

Ohio law allows for vehicle immobilization and forfeiture in certain OVI cases. If you have two or more prior OVI convictions within the past ten years, your vehicle is subject to mandatory, immediate immobilization.

To locate John's Towing, a primary towing service in Williams County, you can call them at (419) 636-1141.