Man gets maximum sentence for assault
In custody for 101 days, Sidney Martinez, 32, of Cortez, received the maximum two years in prison with credit for time served last week after pleading guilty in April to an amended assault charge.
The victim reportedly had her teeth knocked out while holding a child. Child abuse and criminal mischief charges in connection to the March 3 assault were dismissed as part of a plea deal.
Prosecutors have requested some $4,200 in restitution. A hearing on was set for July 7.
Bond is lowered for drug suspect
In custody, Melody Gillenwater, 34, address unknown, had a $20,000 bond reduced to $15,000 last week. She faces drug possession and distribution charges in connection to an undisclosed April 2 incident.
Gillenwater’s original $15,000 bond was forfeited after she failed to appear for a hearing in May. Her next appearance was set for July 7.
Jury trial delayed in burglary case
Out of custody on a $15,000 bond, James Taylor, 64, of Cortez, waived his right to a speedy trial last week on burglary and theft charges. He was charged as a habitual criminal in connection to events that occurred last fall.
A new trial, expected to last five days, was set for Oct. 19.
Court hears defense motions
Out of custody on a $1,500 bond, Robert Espinoza, 45, of Cortez argued to suppress evidence involving an alleged knife fight that occurred in March. Espinoza allegedly cut a 30-year-old man’s face and stabbed him in the back.
After viewing video footage captured by police officers, on the night in question, the court took defense motions under advisement earlier this week.
Espinoza has claimed that he acted in self-defense. Charged with two counts of assault, the defendant is set for a jury trial starting on Aug. 3. If convicted, he faces up to 30 years in prison.
The Cortez Journal