According to the article, the Felon was released on a $500 signature bond. Please read the court case details below and the nature and details of a signature bond. It appears that the judge has little concern for the people of Wisconsin when it comes to violent and repeat judicial offenders.
A Signature Bond in the State of Wisconsin is a type of bail bond that allows an accused individual to be released from custody without the necessity of posting any monetary bail. Here’s a detailed explanation based on current practices and legal frameworks in Wisconsin:
Definition and Function:
Signature Bond, also known as a recognizance bond or ROR (Release on Own Recognizance), functions as a promise by the defendant. Instead of paying cash or providing collateral, the defendant signs a document committing to appear in court as required. If the defendant fails to appear, they could be subject to a monetary penalty or further legal action, including charges for bail jumping.
Eligibility and Conditions:
Eligibility: Typically, this option is available for individuals charged with less serious offenses like misdemeanors or minor felonies, particularly if they have no significant prior criminal history. The court assesses whether the defendant poses a flight risk or a danger to the community. Factors like community ties, employment, and criminal history play a role in this determination.
Conditions: Even with a signature bond, the court might impose certain conditions that the defendant must follow. These can include abstaining from drugs or alcohol, avoiding contact with specific individuals (like victims or witnesses), maintaining employment, or reporting to a probation officer. Violating these conditions can result in the bond being revoked, leading to re-arrest or additional charges.
Legal Framework:
Wisconsin Statutes: Under Wisconsin law, specifically §969, courts are authorized to release defendants on their own recognizance if they determine there’s a reasonable assurance that the defendant will appear for trial. The court must consider the likelihood of the defendant appearing if released without monetary bail.
Implications of Non-Compliance:
Bail Jumping: If a defendant fails to comply with the terms of their signature bond, they can be charged with bail jumping, which can be either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the severity of the original charge. This offense carries its own penalties, including fines or jail time, which are separate from the consequences of the original charge.
Process and Forms:
Court Hearing: Signature bonds are often established during an initial appearance or bail hearing. Here, a judge or court commissioner decides on the appropriateness of a signature bond based on the nature of the charge, the defendant’s history, and other relevant factors.
Documentation: The defendant signs a form acknowledging the bond conditions. This document outlines the financial penalty that would be incurred if they breach the terms of their release. For instance, a $500 signature bond means the defendant promises to pay $500 if they fail to appear in court or violate other conditions.
Differences from Cash Bonds:
Unlike cash bonds where actual money is posted to guarantee appearance, signature bonds rely solely on the defendant’s promise. However, the potential for a monetary penalty still exists, acting as a deterrent for non-compliance.
Practical Considerations:
Advantages: Signature bonds help reduce the financial burden on defendants who might not afford cash bail, allowing them to maintain employment and family responsibilities while awaiting trial.
Disadvantages: There remains a risk of defendants absconding, though this is mitigated by the legal consequences and potential financial penalties.
In summary, the signature bond in Wisconsin serves as an alternative to traditional bail, aiming to balance the rights of the accused with the need to ensure court appearance and public safety, tailored to the specifics of each case.
Swansenreport 
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