Bounty Hunting in Alaska

Become an Alaska Bounty Hunter

Alaska has some of the most lenient regulations regarding bounty hunters, because citizens are allowed to make arrests. However, it is a good idea to get some formal training to be prepared to follow procedures and to protect yourself while tracing and arresting fugitives. If you are interested in becoming a bounty hunter in Alaska, here is what you need to know.

Education and Training

T o work as a bounty hunter in the state of Alaska, you must get a Bail Bond Limited Producer Licensure, which involves few steps. To be truly successful at the job, however, you should attend an Alaskan bounty hunting training class to become familiar with the best practices and to add to your abilities and skills. As an added benefit, getting formal training prepares you for a number of other law enforcement careers such as police officer, corrections officer, S.W.A.T. officer, and sheriff, making the time and cost of attending formal training a great investment in your future.

Licensing Requirements

Bounty hunters in Alaska must have a Bail Bond Limited Producer License from the Division of Insurance in order to practice the trade. To get this license, you must have a registered business license. In addition, you must state that your business’s sole purpose is to act on behalf of an insurer of bail bonds. In Alaska, the regulatory body of bail bonds must be the insurance department.

Weapons Laws

In Alaska, any citizen over 21 years of age may own a carry a legal firearm without a concealed carry permit. If you choose to do so, you must immediately inform any peace officers of the weapon and allow it to be secured during contact. In addition, you may not be impaired by controlled substances or alcohol while carrying. It is not legal to carry the concealed weapon in all locations, so it is important for bounty hunters to be knowledgeable about the details of the law.

Bond Process

The first step in arresting a fugitive is to obtain a certified copy of the bail bond agreement or to present a letter that endorses the bounty hunter as the authorized arresting agent before making an arrest. This provides the authority to make an arrest and to use any means necessary, within regulations, to secure the fugitive. Bounty hunters are not allowed to cause injury or other harm to individuals while making an arrest.

In addition, properly licensed individuals may arrest fugitives within the state or elsewhere in the country, but are not allowed to enter a third party home to do so. Since the bail contract only involves the fugitive, bounty hunters may only enter the fugitive’s home or public locations to secure the arrest.

Becoming a bounty hunter in Alaska is a relatively simple process. It is also one that can lead to a rewarding and challenging career, especially if you receive the proper training beforehand. You may get your training through a number of courses, including those that are conducted online. Studying online allows you to prepare for this great career while still meeting the obligations of your current job.