When a person is on bond in Harris County, they are typically required to follow certain terms and conditions set by the court. Violating these terms can have serious consequences and may result in the revocation of the bond. Here are some common ways a person on bond can violate its terms:
- Failure
to appear: Failing to appear in court for scheduled hearings or
proceedings is a direct violation of the bond. The court relies on the
individual's presence as a condition of their release.
- Committing
new offenses: Engaging in criminal activity while on bond is a significant
violation. This includes being arrested for a new crime, even if unrelated
to the initial charge.
- Travel
restrictions: Bond conditions may include restrictions on travel.
Violating these restrictions by leaving the designated area or traveling
without permission can be considered a violation.
- Contact
with victims or witnesses: In cases involving victims or witnesses, the
court may impose a "no-contact" provision as part of the bond
conditions. Initiating contact or attempting to intimidate or influence these
individuals can lead to a violation and possibly new criminal charges
being filed.
- Failure
to comply with orders: Violating court orders, such as restraining orders
or protective orders, is a violation of the bond conditions. Violating a
restraining or protective order can also lead to new criminal charges
being filed.
- Substance
abuse or alcohol violations: If the court has ordered the individual to
abstain from alcohol or drugs, testing positive for substances or failing
to comply with testing requirements is a violation.
- Possession
of firearms or weapons: In certain cases, individuals may be prohibited
from possessing firearms or weapons as part of their bond conditions.
Possessing such items can result in a violation.
- Failure
to report: If the court requires the individual to report regularly to a
probation officer or any other designated authority, failing to do so is
considered a violation.
- Changing
residence without permission: Some bond conditions require individuals to
seek permission from the court before changing their residence. Failing to
do so can be a violation.
- Tampering
with electronic monitoring devices: If the person is under electronic
monitoring, tampering with or removing the monitoring device is a
violation.
It's important to note that the specific conditions of a
bond can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the case.
The court determines the bond conditions on a case-by-case basis, and violating
any of these conditions can have serious consequences, including the revocation
of the bond, re-arrest, and possibly new criminal charges being filed depending
on the type of violation.
