Two Broward County parents have been arrested and charged with child abuse after it was discovered that their child had been missing for a year and a half.
As the parents are suspected in the death of the child, the judge considered the fact that there is a pending homicide investigation. As a result, the judge increased the bond amount for both parents.
A judge may deviate from the standard bond amount based on a wide number of factors. The judge will consider the accused's prior record, ties to the community, and the nature of the offense. If sufficient evidence demonstrates that the accused may be tied to other crimes or under investigation for other crimes, the judge may increase the bond as well.
Judges have a good amount of discretion when it comes to setting bonds. Judges may impose conditions of a bond, such as electronic GPS monitoring, curfews, or random drug tests.
Eric Matheny is a criminal defense attorney serving Miami-Dade and Broward.