Q: CO (now in WI) for not reporting to jail to start my 4 month work release sentence? (Say after a random traffic stop)?

A: If you are stopped it is very likely that the warrant will be found. The information about the warrant should note whether extradition from another state is sought. If so you will be held for extradition to Colorado. It is unusual, but not unheard, for a state to extradite a person for a misdemeanor, although on a DUI the chance are increased somewhat. For purposes of extradition the reason’s you failed to successfully complete all the terms and conditions of probation is irrelevant.

The law regarding extradition is relatively straight forward. The biggest factor is whether the District Attorney in the jurisdiction that issued the warrant decides to initiate extradition proceedings.

Under the facts provided if an escape charge was fillable, it would not be a felony. Additional facts might change that assessment.

A: Greetings:

As noted by Mr. McHugh, extradition for a misdemeanor warrant is not common. However, in your particular case, the warrant was for failure to appear for a jail sentence. Based on experience, I would imagine the bond amount is very high and makes it much more likely a prosecutor would elect to extradite if you are picked up in WI.

Having something like this hanging over your shoulders is no way to live. Perhaps rather than waiting to see if something happens, you should be proactive and either return to Colorado to try and resolve the issue or simply return to Colorado and remand yourself to serve the sentence.

I wish you the best of luck.

Rob Werking