Further examination of public records has revealed that the seemingly Rogue release program, implemented by the Miami-Dade corrections department’s Pretrial Services Division, has been operating covertly for a longer duration than previously disclosed. In a video from a January 28, 2023 first appearance hearing overseen by experienced bond hearing judge, Honorable Mindy S. Glazer, the concerning expansion of powers delegated to civilian employees becomes evident.

During the hearing, as the defendant’s name is called and it is discovered that the defendant was released on a promise to appear (PTA) after being booked into the jail, Judge Glazer expresses confusion, recognizing that such a procedure contradicts the provisions outlined in the Florida Statutes. The Judge mentions an order that was previously issued by the Chief Judge Nushin G. Sayfie but had since been rescinded or postponed. She further notes her inability to issue a stay-away order for the defendant, now that he has been released. It remains unclear how such an order, even if it were in effect, could legally delegate a release authority that fails to comply with the Florida statutes or rules of criminal procedure. Despite Chief Judge Sayfie’s potential flexibility, it raises concerns regarding the program’s adherence to established legal guidelines.

In this particular case, the defendant was charged with petit theft. Typically, during a first appearance, the Judge reviews the probable cause affidavit and imposes any necessary release conditions, such as stay-away orders to protect the public and victims and to establish boundaries for the defendant to prevent further criminal activity. However, due to the implementation of this rogue program, Judge Glazer was unable to exercise this option, as she explicitly mentions during the hearing.