Caledonia Argus

Accused vandals appeared in court Thursday

Posted: 2/19/02

Jesse OíBieglo and Keith Schroeder, the two men accused of vandalizing the new Caledonia Middle/High School, a shelter at Beaver Creek State Park and a private residence, appeared before Judge Robert Benson on February 14. OíBielgo, 18, is represented by attorney James Schultz, Houston, and Schroeder, also 18, by attorney Greg Schultz, Caledonia. Both of the suspects posted $5,000 cash bail.

County attorney Richard Jackson asked Judge Benson to consider an additional bail for both defendants, because the original bail was based on only one complaint, which concerned the vandalism at Beaver Creek Valley State Park. The additional complaints were not filed until the two had been released, due to computer ìglitchî in the county attorneyís office. Judge James Fabian was presiding during the first appearance of the two.

Jackson asked the judge to consider additional bail because with the additional charges, he said, the incentive to skip bail was increased. Attorneys for both argued against the increase.

Judge Benson declined to increase the bail, noting that the two suspects appeared even though they were aware that additional charges were forthcoming. He did, however, impose additional conditions.

In both cases, the curfew for each was lowered from 8 p.m. to 3 p.m. If in the company of a parent, they may be out between the hours of 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. and must not be more than 10 feet away from a parent. Law enforcement has been authorized to verify that they are at home and are also authorized to test for the presence of alcohol and drugs.

Judge Benson warned each defendant that if the conditions of bail were violated, they would face serious consequences including the forfeiting of bail already paid and an increase in bail required.

OíBieglo and Schroeder will appear February 22 at 11:30 a.m. for a Rule 8 hearing.

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