Judge grants continuance in Antelope County felony case

The Honorable Donna Taylor granted continuance in two felony cases when she presided from the Antelope County Court bench in Neligh last Wednesday.

Jessy L Dirks, 30, of Elgin appeared for further arraignment on a two-count complaint, Count I, a Class 3A felony, strangulation, and Count II, a Class I misdemeanor, third-degree domestic assault, both alleged May 25, in Elgin. Dirks appeared without counsel, despite his request for continuance when he appeared June 1, to consult one. He told Taylor he was unable to retain an attorney and requested one be appointed. After reviewing his financial information, she appointed Carney, “at least temporarily.”

Further arraignment is set Aug. 3. Bond posted May 26, in the amount of $25,000, 10% cash, is continued.

Dirks told Taylor he was currently living with his mother and requested a condition for no contact with the victim be completely removed from his bond terms, “so we can possibly attend marriage counseling.”

Taylor amended bond conditions to allow contact only to schedule and attend marriage counseling.

“The rest of the no-contact (order) remains in effect,” she told him.

Michael R. Braband, 27, of Elgin appeared for further hearing on five felony counts of issuing bad checks in 2021. Braband had retained an attorney, Dennis Morland of Norfolk. At the suggestion of Antelope County Attorney Joe Abler, Morland requested and was granted continuance.

“Maybe we can work something out and (the case) won’t need to go to the district court,” Abler said.

Taylor continued the hearing to July 6. Bond posted April 16, in the amount of $10,000, 10%, was also continued.