Clerical Error Gives Convicted Felon Cheaper Bond

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Carlos Branch was charged in a murder four years ago, however, a clerical error resulted in a cheaper bond for the dangerous, convicted felon.

The murder suspect walked out of the Davidson County Jail, roughly a month ago, after posting a $50,000 bond. The figure should have read $150,000, by all accounts.

"Unfortunately, it would appear in this case that a very dangerous felon is the benefit of a clerical SNAFU. We would have preferred that he remain in jail until his trial for this murder count," said Don Aaron, Metro Nashville Police Department spokesperson.

The murder charge stems from a 2005 homicide. That same year Branch helped shoot-up a Vanderbilt dormitory party. He was convicted of assault conviction for hitting and wounding a Vandy football player.

"Carlos Branch is a person this police department and the Nashville community does not want on the streets," Aaron said.

Branch also has other convictions that include having a gun on school property, assault with bodily injury, driving on a suspended license and trespassing.

Even with the latest get out of jail pass, Branch has been unable to stay out of trouble.

Metro police arrested him last Friday for felony marijuana, and for having a rifle behind his bed. Branch is not supposed to have a weapon, but still he was able to get out on bond two days later.

The district attorney's office wants him back behind bars. They filed for a bond revocation hearing on Monday.

"Anybody seeing Branch should be fearful of him, and should contact this police department immediately," Aaron said.

Branch has been scheduled for trial next April on the murder charge from 2005.