Understanding Bond Fees at El Paso County Jail: What You Actually Have to Pay

Colorado law (HB 25-1015) is clear: bond fees, booking fees, and other debts cannot be required to secure someone's release on a money bond. Whether you're the defendant, a surety, or a third-party payer, you only need to pay the bond amount itself to get the release process started - even when posting online. Other charges may become a debt later, but they're not supposed to block someone from getting out.

Here's where it gets confusing. El Paso County Sheriff's Office materials state the jail "charges a $10 nonrefundable fee for each bond." Many families hit this wall: you may see or hear about a bond fee even though the law says fees aren't required to secure release.

The same materials mention "a $30 booking fee charged each time someone is booked into the jail." This booking fee is a real charge that can show up in connection with the case. But under HB 25-1015, it still shouldn't be something you must pay upfront as a condition of release on a money bond.

1. Ask what amount is required to release the person - Start by separating the bond amount from any “fees.” Under HB 25-1015, the bond amount is what’s needed to secure release on a money bond.
2. Name the fees you’re being asked to pay - If staff or a process mentions a $10 bond fee or a $30 booking fee, say it back clearly so there’s no confusion about what’s being requested.
3. Point back to the HB 25-1015 rule - Be direct: bond fees, booking fees, and other fees or debts are not supposed to be required to secure release; the defendant, surety, or third-party payer need only pay the bond amount.
4. Keep the focus on release - If there’s a dispute about fees, repeat the key point: you’re ready to pay the bond amount now, and you’re asking for release based on that payment.

• ✓ Ask for written documentation showing exactly what each fee is, the amount, and why it’s being charged.
• ✓ Get receipts for every payment you make, including any separate “bond fee” or “booking fee.”
• ✓ Make sure the bond payment is made out to the holding county.
• ✓ Do not make bond payments out in the incarcerated person’s name.

If you believe you were improperly required to pay fees as a condition of release, report it to El Paso County Sheriff's Office Internal Affairs at 719-520-7345 or SHROTSComplaints@elpasoco.com. Have your dates, amounts, and copies of any receipts or written fee statements ready when you reach out.