Domestic Violence Defendant Rejects Plea Deal for Felony

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A domestic violence defendant rejected a plea deal and had his pretrial release conditions modified.

The defendant is charged with felony assault with intent to kill while armed.

The Sept. 29 hearing was originally scheduled for the defendant to enter a guilty plea. However, he formally rejected the offer during the hearing.

Judge Juliet McKenna also took the defendant out of the High Intensity Supervision Program (HISP).

The defendant has been on HISP since he was charged on Jan. 2. Defense attorney Madalyn Harvey said her client has been compliant with his release conditions. Harvey also noted how Roberts was receiving mental health treatment and taking medication.

The prosecution opposed releasing the defendant from HISP, citing the violence of the alleged crime. 

However, in light of the defendant’s compliance, Judge Juliet McKenna granted the defense’s request. Now, the defendant will only have to comply with a stay-away order and report to the Pretrial Services Agency. 

The defendant’s next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 29.