SB 252 Summary

• Creates new crime of "failure to appear" (AS 11.56.730) as class C felony for felony cases, class A misdemeanor for misdemeanor cases, and violation for violation cases; includes affirmative defense of unforeseeable circumstances beyond person's control.

• Establishes comprehensive release procedures requiring judicial officers to release or detain persons at first appearance, allowing detention of felony-charged persons up to 48 hours for prosecution to demonstrate danger or non-appearance risk.

• Authorizes peace officers to arrest without warrant for violating release conditions imposed under AS 12.30.016(e) and 12.30.027, and for domestic violence crimes or violations of protective orders.

• Codifies detailed release conditions including personal recognizance, appearance bonds, bail bonds, performance bonds, travel restrictions, employment requirements, substance abuse restrictions, and third-party custodian arrangements.

• Amends Alaska Rules of Criminal Procedure to extend first appearance deadline from 24 hours to 48 hours after arrest and modifies bail review procedures; effective July 1, 2010.