Warrants pending for three court truants

Three defendants failed to appear in the Antelope County courtroom last Wednesday, Feb. 2.

Richard C. Jelich Jr. failed to appear for a pretrial hearing on two counts alleged Nov. 29 at 405 N Street in Neligh, disturbing the peace, a Class 3 misdemeanor, and criminal mischief, a Class 2 misdemeanor. Antelope County public defender Melissa Figueroa requested a continuance on his behalf.

County prosecutor Joe Abler objected and noted an affidavit in the case file. The Honorable Donna Taylor issued a bench warrant, with a $10,000, 10% cash bond. Jelich was originally released on a similar bond Nov. 30, 2021. It was subsequently reduced to $5,000, 10%, Dec. 1, 2021, with $500 refunded to the defendant.

Tori A. Wooters, 26, of Albion failed to appear for arraignment of four counts alleged Jan. 19, possession of methamphetamine, a Class 4 felony; driving under the influence of drugs, a Class W misdemeanor; refusal to submit to a chemical test, a Class W misdemeanor; and possession of drug paraphernalia, an infraction. Figueroa requested a continuance, Abler objected, indicating plans to file documents requesting an arrest warrant. Taylor noted Wooter’s failure to appear, warrant will be issued upon filing of affidavit and motion by Abler.

Wooters was arrested Jan. 19, southeast of Neligh on Highway 275, by a Nebraska State Patrol officer after reports and his observance of erratic driving. She was released on 10% of a $1,500 bond Jan. 22.

Dennis D. Sothman, 42, of Atmore, Alabama, failed to appear on two waiverable offenses, no operator’s license, a Class 3 misdemeanor, and possession of marijuana, one ounce or less, first offense, an infraction.

Taylor ruled Abler may file motion, affidavit and order for arrest warrant. Sothman was cited by a NSP officer after he was involved in a collision on Highway 275, about four miles east of Oakdale, on Dec. 23, 2021.