State v. Watson

KLEES, Judge.

American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida, surety of defendant, appeals the trial court's denial of its motions to set aside two judgments of bond forfeiture. We find that the bonds were improperly forfeited, and therefore reverse.

On June 24, 1986, defendant Marcin A. Watson was charged with possession of marijuana, a violation of R.S. 40:966, and possession of cocaine, a violation of R.S. 40:967. Defendant’s bond was set at $2,000 on the first charge and $5,000 on the second charge. American Bankers Insurance Company supplied both bonds.

Defendant was arraigned on July 8,…