Saturday, January 30, 2016

Judge denies pre-trial release of Bundy brothers

A federal judge says she won't release from jail three of the main figures behind an armed standoff at an Oregon wildlife refuge. U.S. Magistrate Judge Stacie Beckerman said at court hearings Friday for group leader Ammon Bundy, his brother Ryan Bundy and Ryan Payne that they pose a danger to the community and she's concerned they won't follow orders to return to Oregon for criminal proceedings. Bundy told the judge has no interest in returning to the refuge, saying "my only desire is to be home with family and take care of my wife and children." Beckerman said Joseph O'Shaughnessy doesn't have to remain in custody, noting that he didn't spend his nights at the refuge. Federal prosecutors objected, however, and he'll stay in jail pending a Tuesday hearing. Beckerman also said she might also release citizen journalist Peter Santilli. But she said it's a close call and wasn't ready to make an immediate decision. Shawna Cox, the only woman arrested in connection with the refuge standoff, will be allowed to go home but only after the armed occupation ends. Four holdouts still are occupying Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Ammon Bundy's lawyer, Lissa Casey, says her client is not aligned with those remaining at the refuge and wants to go back to his family in Idaho. Casey said of Bundy: "He is done in Harney County; his message has been sent."...more

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