Former BRPD officer ruled guilty of malfeasance granted bond as he moves to appeal conviction

Former BRPD Officer Granted Bond During Appeal Process

Donald Steele Jr., a former Baton Rouge police officer convicted of soliciting sex from a Southern University student, was scheduled to begin a six-month sentence at East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on Friday.

However, his transfer to jail was delayed after his attorneys requested a bond while they prepare to appeal his conviction and sentence.

Bond Granted by Judge

During a hearing at the 19th Judicial District Courthouse, Chief Judge Donald Johnson set Steele's post-conviction bond at $18,000, the same amount as before his conviction and sentencing.

In October, Steele was sentenced to one year in parish prison, with half of the term suspended. He was also placed on probation for one year following his release and ordered to surrender to begin his sentence.

Delays and Legal Arguments

Steele was initially ordered to report to jail the Monday following his sentence, but the judge was absent, causing a postponement to Friday.

At Friday's hearing, Steele's lawyers argued for bail and informed the court of their plan to appeal.

"The Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure entitled Steele to a bond," prosecutors and Judge Johnson agreed.

Legal Context

State law mandates that defendants sentenced to five years or less are eligible for post-conviction appeal bail.

Steele's case follows this rule, allowing him to remain free on bond while his appeal is processed.

Steele’s surrender to serve his sentence is thus temporarily postponed pending the appeal outcome.

Summary

The case illustrates procedural protections for convicted individuals appealing sentences of five years or less, allowing temporary release on bond during legal reviews.

Author’s summary: Donald Steele Jr. was granted bond during his appeal process after being convicted and sentenced, illustrating the application of Louisiana's legal provisions for post-conviction appeal bail.

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The Advocate The Advocate — 2025-11-07

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