$1 Million Bail Set for San Diego Man Accused of Attempted Murder of a Cop – What You Need to Know

$1 Million Bail Set for San Diego Man Accused of Attempted Murder of a Cop – What You Need to Know

A recent case in Point Loma has brought attention to the serious legal consequences and high bail amounts associated with alleged assaults on law enforcement officers.

On January 27, 2025, a judge set bail at $1 million for William Woodward Stephens, a 65-year-old resident of Point Loma, who is charged with the attempted murder of a San Diego police officer. The officer sustained several broken bones after being struck by Stephens' vehicle and remains hospitalized.

Why Is Bail Set So High?

This case underscores the severity with which the legal system treats offenses against law enforcement personnel. In California, attempted murder charges, especially against peace officers, can carry life sentences upon conviction. Consequently, bail amounts are set prohibitively high to reflect the gravity of the charges and to ensure the defendant's appearance in court.

High bail amounts like this are designed to discourage flight risk and reinforce the serious nature of the crime. However, they can also create significant financial and emotional stress for the defendant’s family.

How Does Bail Work in High-Profile Cases?

When a defendant is given a high bail amount, they have a few options:

1. Pay the Full Amount in Cash - The defendant or their family can pay the full $1 million in cash to the court, which will be refunded after all court appearances are made.

2. Seek a Bail Bond - Most people turn to a bail bonds company to cover the cost. In California, bail bond agencies typically charge 10% of the bail amount as a non-refundable fee. In this case, the cost of securing a bail bond would be $100,000.

3. Request a Bail Reduction Hearing - A defense attorney may petition the court for a bail reduction if they can prove the amount is excessive given the circumstances.

Navigating the Bail Process in San Diego

For families facing such daunting circumstances, navigating the bail process can be overwhelming. At Allergic to Handcuffs, we understand the emotional and financial strain these situations impose.

We provide:

• Personalized Assistance - Every case is different, and we take the time to guide families through the process.

• Flexible Payment Plans - We work with families to help make bail more affordable.

• 24/7 Availability - Arrests happen at all hours, and so do we. We’re here to help anytime.

Get Expert Help Now

If you or a loved one is facing high bail amounts or complex legal charges, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are experienced in handling high-profile cases and can guide you through every step of the process.

📞 Call Allergic to Handcuffs now at 619-512-4111 for immediate assistance.

Note: This blog post is based on information from a news article published on January 28, 2025. For the latest updates on this case, please refer to official news sources.