CUSTER COUNTY— The three men that were arrested after becoming stuck in a snowdrift in Custer County a few weeks ago, were arraigned on Thursday, March 21 in Custer County District Court. Dennis Farrell, 38, and Adam Houn, 21, are now facing three counts after an amended complaint was submitted to the court.
Both men are facing alleged possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine (class IC felony), alleged possession of a controlled substance-heroin (class IV felony), and a habitual criminal enhancement which carries a 10-60 year sentence if convicted of any of the previously listed felonies.
The third member of the trio that was arrested, Timothy Murphy-Martinez, 29, is also facing alleged possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine (class IC felony), and possession of a controlled substance- heroin (class IV felony). Murphy-Martinez also asked for a bond review and reduction from 10% of $50,000 to 10% of $25,000.
It was argued that Murphy-Martinez had connections in North Platte that would make sure he would stay in Nebraska. The State argued that while he did not have much of a criminal history, there were facts that pointed to Murphy-Martinez having direct connection with a bag that was involved in the investigation. Judge Karin Noakes granted the reduction of the bond with the stipulations of remaining in the state and avoiding any criminal behavior.
The three men were also offered an opportunity at a preliminary hearing on the alleged possession of heroin charge which was waived by Farrell and Murphy-Martinez. Houn and his attorney did ask for the preliminary hearing which will take place on March 28 at 9:30 AM.
All three men have had their cases set for jury trial to take place on June 24 at 9:30 AM.
Christopher Amos, 30 of Broken Bow, appeared for arraignment in District Court and has already taken a plea deal with the state. Amos had originally been charged with two counts of 1st degree sexual assault of a minor, but with the plea deal one of those counts has been dropped.
Amos pled guilty to one count of 1st degree sexual assault of a minor (class IB felony) which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison. A pre-sentence investigation has been ordered by Judge Noakes to be completed by sentencing on May 16 at 10 AM.
