George Zimmerman released on bail

SANFORD, Fla. -- George Zimmerman was released around midnight yesterday from a county jail on $150,000 bail as he awaits his trial on second-degree murder charges in the fatal shooting of Trayvon Martin.

The neighborhood watch volunteer was wearing a brown jacket and blue jeans and carrying a paper bag. He met a man in a white vehicle and drove away. His ultimate destination is being kept secret for his safety and it could be outside Florida.

Circuit Judge Kenneth Lester said at a hearing Friday he cannot have any guns and must observe a 7 p.m.-to-6 a.m. curfew. Zimmerman also surrendered his passport.

Zimmerman had to put up 10 percent, or $15,000, to make bail. His father had indicated he might take out a second mortgage. A website was set up to collect donations for Zimmerman's defense fund. It is unclear how much has been raised.

Zimmerman, 28, fatally shot Martin, 17, on Feb. 26 in Sanford after calling 911 and then following him. Zimmerman said he shot Martin, who was visiting from Miami, in self-defense, citing Florida's "stand your ground" law. Martin was found unarmed. -- AP