Which of the following statements correctly describes the scope of the false information prohibition?

• A. The prohibition applies to principals, person in custody or defendant, or indemnitor.
• B. The prohibition applies only to the bondsman.
• C. The prohibition applies only to the defendant.
• D. The prohibition applies to all of the above.

Answer: (D)

The false information prohibition is broad and covers every person involved in the bond process who provides information to obtain or maintain a bond. This includes the person in custody (the defendant), the indemnitor who signs for the bond, and the bondsman. The goal is to prevent fraud and ensure that all facts backing the bond are true and verifiable, since any false information can undermine the bond’s purpose and the court’s ability to protect the public.

Practically, this means a defendant can’t misrepresent employment, residence, or other facts to qualify for release; an indemnitor can’t falsify financial resources or ability to cover the bond; and a bondsman can’t misstate terms or collateral. If false information is provided by any of these parties, the bond can be revoked or forfeited, and there may be additional legal consequences for the party who lied. That’s why the scope includes all of the above.