Travis County magistrate sets bonds, grants some personal bonds and issues protective orders

Magistrate Judge Vigorito reviewed charges and set bail or personal-release conditions for more than a dozen defendants during a Travis County magistrate hearing. The judge explained the four ways to secure release, set bond amounts and conditions, granted personal bonds in some cases and denied them in others, and issued emergency protective orders in at least one multi-count case.

The hearing matters because pretrial release decisions determine who leaves custody while cases are pending and what conditions accompany that release. Judge Vigorito emphasized defendants’ rights and the consequences of failing to comply with bond or protective-order conditions.

Judge Vigorito opened the proceeding by explaining rights and release options, telling defendants, “I’m not here to decide whether you’re innocent or guilty. I’m just here to explain your charges, your rights, and your options on how to get out of jail.” He outlined four ways to get out: a personal (promise-to-appear) bond, posting full cash bond, using a bail bondsman, or hiring an attorney to seek release. He also told the group that “most bail bond companies tend to charge around 10% of the bond amount.”

Decisions and conditions

- Savannah Wertenberg: Charged with a Class B driving-while-intoxicated misdemeanor with a stated “bottom amount” of $2,000. Judge Vigorito said, “I am gonna do a personal bond in your case. You can be released today for free.” (Personal bond granted.)

- Bridal Sanchez: Had multiple charges including two third-degree felonies (tampering with evidence; evading arrest in a motor vehicle) and two misdemeanor charges the prosecutor indicated would be dropped soon. The judge said he would grant a personal bond for the remaining felonies and explained a…