Florida Bail Agents Association

06/10/2026

With profound sadness, the Florida Bail Agents Association mourns the passing of our friend, longtime colleague, and former President, Russell Eugene Baillie.

Russell Eugene Baillie, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on June 5.
Born on Nov. 6, 1952, in Ocala, Russell lived a life deeply rooted in family, friendship, and a love of the outdoors. He made his home on the western shore of Lake George, where he found great joy in Old Florida's natural beauty and the simple pleasures of life on the water.
After graduating from Ocala High School, he attended the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. He later graduated from the University of Florida, carrying lifelong friendships, cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the values of brotherhood, leadership and service.

A respected leader in his profession and community, Russell was a lifetime member of the Ocala Lions Club and proudly served as its president. Dedicated to community service and helping others, he embodied the Lions’ motto, “We Serve.” He also served as President of the Florida Bail Agents Association, earning statewide respect and admiration from colleagues for his leadership, integrity and commitment to his profession.

Russell was the devoted husband of Jaye Sterchi Baillie, with whom he shared a life filled with love, laughter, adventure, and unwavering partnership. Together, they built a family that was the pride and joy of his life.

He is survived by his daughter, Rebecca Baillie Stumme, and her husband, Andy Stumme, and their children, Emory and Clark Stumme; and by his son, Sam Baillie, and his wife, Beth Baillie, and their children, Henry and Lora Kate Baillie. Russell cherished his role as a grandfather.

Russell was happiest outdoors. Whether fishing Lake George, hunting with friends and family, boating, or tending a barbecue surrounded by loved ones, he embraced life with enthusiasm. For decades, he looked forward to summer vacations in the Florida Keys, where he spent countless days fishing, laughing, and making memories with family and friends. Those trips became treasured traditions and among the happiest moments of his life.

Known for his quick wit and wonderful sense of humor, Russell had a remarkable ability to make people laugh and feel at ease. He never met a stranger and had a gift for turning ordinary moments into memorable stories. His warm smile, generous spirit, and easygoing nature made everyone feel welcome.
Those who knew Russell will remember a man of quiet strength, deep loyalty, and steadfast love for his family. He found joy in simple moments, valued hard work, and lived with appreciation for the people and places he loved most.

Though his passing leaves a tremendous void, his legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless memories shared around campfires, on the water, in the Florida Keys, and at Lake George.
Russell will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

A memorial service will begin at 4 p.m. on June 16 at Grace Episcopal Church, 503 SE Broadway St., Ocala. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a life well lived and a man deeply loved.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Russell’s name to the David Baillie Scholarship Fund, established in memory of Russell’s father, David Baillie. The scholarship, established by the Ocala Lions Club, supports students pursuing degrees in agriculture, helping young people pursue their educational dreams while honoring the values of hard work, stewardship of the land, and service to others that were important to both David and Russell. Through this lasting tribute, their legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Gifts may be mailed to Public Education Foundation of Marion County, 1239 NW 4th St., Ocala, FL 34475, or made online at pefmc.org (select “Donate” and designate your gift “In Memory of Russell Baillie”).

06/06/2026

The Florida Bail Agents Association was proud to once again sponsor the 39th Annual Meeting of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (FACDL).

The conference brought together many of Florida's leading criminal defense attorneys, judges, and criminal justice professionals for several days of outstanding education, networking, and collaboration.

The FBAA appreciates the opportunity to strengthen its longstanding relationship with Florida's criminal defense bar. Together, we remain committed to protecting constitutional rights, ensuring access to justice, and promoting a fair and effective criminal justice system.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by the Florida Bail Agents Association booth to visit with our leadership team. We enjoyed the opportunity to discuss important issues affecting Florida's bail system, answer questions, and share how the FBAA continues to advocate for professionalism, public safety, and meaningful partnerships within the legal community.

A special thank you to the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers for hosting another outstanding conference. We appreciate the opportunity to participate and look forward to seeing everyone again next year!

06/04/2026

Join us for the 2026 Summer Conference on August 6th and 7th in Wesley Chapel, FL. Reserve your seat today!
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Email from Florida Bail Agents Assoc Join us this summer in Wesley Chapel, FL.     2026 Summer Conference August 6th & 7th REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN Greetings, The FBAA is pleased to announce that our

05/19/2026

Industry Veteran set to retire after 50 dedicated years of service.
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Email from Florida Bail Agents Assoc A Heartfelt Farewell to a True Bail Industry Legend, Dan Amato.     Congratulations Dan Amato Veteran Bail Agent & FBAA Board Surety Representative Announces Retir

04/30/2026

Don't miss out on promoting your agency at the FACDL Summer Conference!
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Email from Florida Bail Agents Assoc FL. Assoc. of Criminal Defense Lawyers     Agency Promotion Opportunity Reminder For The FACDL Summer Conference Dear Subscribers, Time is running out to reserve y

04/13/2026

Attention Florida Bail Agency Owners...
Promotional Sponsorship is available for the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers 2026 Summer Conference. More information can be found here: https://conta.cc/48tL5am

03/20/2026

Bail That Fits the Case: Why Serious Crimes Demand Serious Bond Consideration

In the ongoing discussion about bail reform, one principle must stay clear: bail isn't meant to punish. Its goal is to ensure defendants appear in court while upholding the presumption of innocence. However, that doesn't mean bond amounts should be kept low in every case. When serious crimes are involved, bond amounts need to accurately reflect the severity of the offense, the risk to the public, and the integrity of the judicial process.

A fair bail decision requires a thorough, individualized judgment. Courts must evaluate several key factors, including:

The seriousness of the alleged crime
The defendant’s prior criminal record
Their history of appearing in court or failing to appear
Evidence of flight risk or attempts to avoid prosecution
Family ties and responsibilities
Employment status and financial resources
Length of residence in the community
Character and mental condition
The need to protect the public and ensure community safety

While all these factors are important, the severity of the offense should carry significant weight. Some crimes—by their very nature—demonstrate a level of harm, impact, or potential danger that justifies a higher bond, even if the defendant has no prior history of violence, no criminal record, and no flight risk.

The idea of “matching the bond to the crime” should be taken at face value. Serious charges—whether financial crimes, large-scale drug offenses, or other major felonies—carry higher stakes for victims, the community, and the justice system itself. These cases often involve greater incentives for defendants to flee, more complex legal processes, and wider societal effects.

Even when a defendant is considered “non-violent,” the scale, complexity, or potential impact of the alleged crime can warrant a higher bond. A low bond for a serious case can undermine accountability and fail to reflect the gravity of the charges.

Public safety must remain a key consideration in every bail decision. Protecting the community goes beyond preventing physical violence—it also involves guarding against financial harm, organized crime, and repeat offenses.

When the alleged conduct suggests a broader risk—whether economic, systemic, or behavioral—the court must ensure that bond conditions, including the amount, account for that risk. Higher bond amounts in serious cases help keep defendants accountable and protect the public.

It is important to distinguish between punishment and appropriate bond setting. Bail is not intended to punish a defendant before trial. However, it must be meaningful. A bond that is too low in a serious case fails to serve its purpose — it does not provide enough incentive to appear in court, nor does it accurately reflect the severity of the charges.

A properly set bond recognizes both the rights of the accused and the seriousness of the alleged offense. It ensures defendants have a stake in following the legal process while maintaining the presumption of innocence.

An effective bail system encourages accountability, safeguards the public, and sustains trust in the judicial process. When courts appropriately consider the severity of the crime—along with the defendant’s history and community connections—they create a system that is both fair and effective.

When bail is set too low in serious cases, it risks undermining public trust and devaluing the importance of the law. Conversely, when it is established thoughtfully and proportionally, it strengthens the integrity of the system.

Bail is a cornerstone of a fair justice system, but it only works well when applied with fairness and practicality. Setting bond amounts that reflect the severity of the crime means recognizing that serious offenses—whether labeled as violent or not—require higher bond considerations.

Bail should never be used as punishment, but it must reflect the seriousness of the charges, the risk to the public, and the need for accountability. When bond amounts are set with these principles in mind, the system functions effectively, protecting the public, respecting the accused, and upholding justice.

Cary Carlisle
President, Florida Bail Agents Association

03/10/2026

Happy Birthday to Shawn Foster of Sunrise Consulting!

On behalf of the Florida Bail Agents Association, we want to wish you a very happy birthday and extend our sincere gratitude for all you do for Florida bail agents across the state. Your support, dedication, and commitment to our profession mean so much to this industry and to the many professionals who benefit from your hard work and leadership.

Happy Birthday, Shawn, and thank you for all you do!

— Florida Bail Agents Association

02/19/2026

The Florida Bail Agents Association extends its deepest condolences on the passing of American Surety Company executive Jack Whitlock. Jack was a respected leader whose professionalism, integrity, and commitment to the bail profession left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege to work with him.

Throughout his career, Jack demonstrated unwavering support for bail agents and the surety community, always advocating for accountability, partnership, and the continued advancement of our profession. His leadership at American Surety Company helped strengthen the relationship between sureties and agents, fostering trust and collaboration that benefited the entire industry.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jack will be remembered for his character, his guidance, and the genuine respect he showed to colleagues and friends alike.

On behalf of our members and Board of Directors, we extend our heartfelt prayers to Jack’s family, friends, and the entire American Surety Company family during this difficult time. His legacy will not be forgotten, and his contributions to the profession will continue to be felt for years to come.

Florida Bail Agents Association

02/03/2026

Get informed about bail reform. It’s important to separate facts from misinformation and understand how proposals like cashless bail can impact public safety, accountability, and court appearance rates.

Sign up to receive free, fact-based articles and updates. We also encourage agency owners to add the link below to your website to help improve search visibility and ensure accurate information is easier to find online.

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