Category: Bail & Bond · Statute: F.S. 903.046(2) · Source: Florida Legislature
Understanding Designated Crimes (Bail Enhancement) in Florida
In Florida, the term "Designated Crimes" refers to a specific category of high-severity offenses that trigger enhanced scrutiny during the pretrial release process under Florida Statute Section 903.046. While standard misdemeanor and low-level felony charges often follow a routine bond schedule, designated crimes are legally recognized as posing a heightened risk to public safety. These offenses primarily encompass violent felonies, armed robbery, sexual battery, drug trafficking, driving under the influence (DUI) manslaughter, and any felony involving the use or possession of a firearm.
When a defendant is arrested for a designated crime, the traditional presumption of a quick release on a standard bond is set aside. Instead, the designation serves as a statutory red flag, requiring the court to conduct a much more rigorous evaluation of the defendant's background and the circumstances of the alleged offense. This classification ensures that individuals accused of inherently dangerous crimes do not secure automatic release without a judge first assessing the specific threat they may pose to victims, witnesses, and the community at large.
How Designated Crimes Impact Florida Bail
For defendants charged with a designated crime, Florida judges are statutorily mandated to apply stricter bail considerations. Under F.S. 903.046, the court must factor the violent or dangerous nature of the designated offense directly into the bond calculation. This typically results in significantly higher monetary bail amounts, a complete denial of bond pending a formal Arthur hearing, or the imposition of restrictive non-monetary conditions such as mandatory GPS ankle monitoring, strict house arrest, and absolute no-contact orders with victims.