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SB 928

Mandatory Remand to Custody upon Conviction of Dangerous Crimes

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jonathan Martin

SB 928 mandates automatic remand to custody for dangerous crime convictions in Florida, eliminating judicial discretion in pre-sentencing release decisions.

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Bill Summary · SB 928

Legislative bill overview

SB 928 mandates that individuals convicted of designated "dangerous crimes" in Florida must be remanded into custody pending sentencing, eliminating judicial discretion in bail decisions for these offenses. The bill establishes a presumption against release for defendants convicted of crimes categorized as dangerous, requiring them to remain incarcerated between conviction and sentencing.

Why is this important

This measure directly impacts the period between conviction and sentencing—potentially weeks or months—when defendants currently may be released on their own recognizance or bail. It affects both the immediate liberty of defendants and correctional system capacity, while potentially influencing sentencing decisions by judges who see defendants remain incarcerated during this interval.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial discretion vs. mandatory policy: Removes judges' case-by-case assessment of flight risk, dangerousness, and individual circumstances, replacing it with automatic custody for defined crime categories
  • Definition of "dangerous crimes": The specific crimes included in this category will determine how broadly the mandate applies and whether classifications align with public safety outcomes
  • Pretrial detention concerns: Extended custody before sentencing may pressure defendants toward guilty pleas and raises constitutional questions about due process, particularly for low-income defendants unable to afford appeals or legal challenges during this period

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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