Kidnapping is a serious offense that involves unlawfully taking someone against their will, and in some cases, involves the use of a deadly weapon. This crime can be charged as aggravated kidnapping if the circumstances surrounding the crime exceed what would be considered typical. Because kidnapping is a serious crime and is often charged with other associated crimes, total bail amount is likely to be high and the exact amount can vary substantially.
Kidnapping vs Aggravated Kidnapping
Kidnapping typically refers to the act of taking another person without their consent with the intent to use or threaten to use deadly force, or with the intent to hold them for ransom. It also includes instances where a person is used as a human shield, taken hostage, or taken to facilitate the commission of another felony.
Aggravated kidnapping occurs when the victim is subjected to serious bodily injury, sexual assault, or abuse, or when the kidnapping is committed for a particular reason, such as retaliation or terroristic threats. Aggravated kidnapping often also includes situations where an individual abducts or detains another person and demands a ransom, or when the victim is under the age of 14.
Bail for Kidnapping
Bail for Kidnapping can be extremely high. If you or someone you know is facing a kidnapping charge, understanding the bail process is essential. The criminal justice system has established a penal code that outlines the seriousness of the offense, and the penalties associated with it. Bail for kidnapping varies depending on the specifics of the case, the individual accused of committing the crime, and the state where the crime was committed.
In Harris County, Texas, for example, bail for kidnapping can range from $50,000 up to $500,000 or more. The judge will consider various factors when determining the total bail amount, including the severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, flight risk, community safety, financial resources, and the likelihood of conviction.
If the individual charged with kidnapping is considered a danger to the community, or if there is evidence suggesting that they are likely to flee and not appear in court, the total bail amount may be set higher. In some cases, the judge may even deny bail altogether and order the defendant to remain in custody until their trial.
The defendant may be required to follow certain conditions while awaiting trial, such as surrendering their passport, avoiding contact with the victim or witnesses, and/or abiding by a protective order. Failure to comply with these conditions may result in additional charges and/or the revocation of bail.
Bail Bonds for Kidnapping
If bail is granted, the defendant can choose to pay the full amount in cash or work with a bonding company to post bond on their behalf. A bonding company will charge a non-refundable fee, typically 10% of the total bail amount. In exchange for paying that fee, the bail bondsman will secure your release from jail until trial.
If you have been granted a total amount of bail for kidnapping, use our online kidnapping bail bond calculator to determine the fee you’ll need to pay a bail bond agent to secure your release from jail.