Credit cards can now literally bail you out

By Jeremy M. Simon

At least in one New York county, credit cards can now literally bail you out should you find yourself on the wrong side of the law. 

It was recently announced that cardholders who get arrested in Chemung County, N.Y., would be wise to have their plastic handy.  The Chemung County Sheriff's Office said that it will start to accept credit card payments for bail or bonds starting on Oct. 10, 2006.

Individuals will be able to makes payments anytime with a credit card by dialing a toll-free telephone number, in a service provided by the Chemung County Sheriff's Office.

The department noted that a defendant who opts to pay with a credit card will be charged a fee for the service.  However, those who post bail using a credit card on their behalf will not.

By allowing defendants with credit cards to post bail, the aim is to lessen the jail's population.

So, if you find yourself in the poky for speeding in this little New York hamlet, maybe the airline miles you earned by posting bail with your credit card will allow you to fly next time. 

Published: October 10, 2006

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