Can a Bounty Hunter Arrest Me in Fort Myers?

If there’s a warrant out for your arrest in Fort Myers, you may be concerned about bounty hunters. Do these individuals really have the legal authority to track you down and arrest you? Are you allowed to resist arrest in Fort Myers when facing a bounty hunter? What are your rights in this scenario? Discuss your situation confidentially by contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Only Licensed Individuals Can Operate as Bounty Hunters in Florida

Under Florida law, only licensed bail bond agents and bail bond enforcement agents are allowed to operate as “bounty hunters.” Florida law does not recognize the term “bounty hunter.” In order to become a bail bond agent, an individual must go through the appropriate training. They must also complete a certain number of on-the-job hours before they receive their full license. In other words, random people cannot “accept bounties” and track you down in the hope of cashing in on a reward.

There is no “reward” for catching you. Instead, a bail bond agent can apprehend you in order to avoid losing the loan they took out with the court when they organized your release. Not all bail bond agents use bounty hunters, and some simply choose to accept losses when defendants skip town.

With all that said, bail bond agents do have the legal authority to apprehend you in the State of Florida. As long as they have the appropriate license and you have not appeared at court on the agreed-upon date, the agent can attempt to arrest you in the same way as a police officer. The bail bond agent may also apprehend you if you leave the state, as the implication is that you’re “on the run” (even if you haven’t missed your court date yet). A bounty hunter cannot follow you into another country, however.

Can I Resist a Bounty Hunter in Florida?

Because bounty hunters do not wear uniforms, you might feel justified in resisting when one of these individuals tries to take you into custody. For all you know, this could be a random criminal trying to kidnap you. Bounty hunters can carry firearms, and they may use other weapons such as bear spray (mace).

If an individual tells you that they are a “bounty hunter,” they are probably unlicensed. This is because the State of Florida does not recognize that term, and referring to yourself as a “bounty hunter” while making an arrest may even be illegal in the Sunshine State. If you want to know whether an individual is a licensed bounty hunter, ask to see their license.

Can a Criminal Defense Attorney in Fort Myers Help Me?

Florida has strict laws that prevent so-called bounty hunters from arresting people. However, qualified and licensed “bail bond enforcement agents” may have the right to take you into custody under specific circumstances. If you skipped bail and you are concerned about what might happen next, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Fort Myers. Your communications with a lawyer are completely confidential, and they can help you determine what to do next. Contact The Foley & Wilson Law Firm to continue this conversation.

Sources:

 flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2019/648.30

gulfcoastnewsnow.com/article/warrant-punta-gorda-convicted-selling-fentanyl-cape-coral/71185926