Defendants plead not guilty in Antelope County court

Ryan J. Pelster, 22, of Petersburg faced the Honorable Donna Taylor in the Antelope County courtroom in Neligh on Wednesday, July 6, for further arraignment in two cases. Dennis Morland of Norfolk, appearing for his partner Brad Montag, who is Pelster’s attorney of record. In the first case, Pelster is charged with criminal mischief, less than $500, a Class 3 misdemeanor alleged May 8 in Neligh. The second case includes four counts alleged June 11, also in Neligh, Count I, operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest, a Class 1 misdemeanor; Count II, second-degree trespassing, a Class 2 misdemeanor; Count III, willful reckless driving, a Class 3 misdemeanor; and stop sign violation, an infraction. He pleaded not guilty to all charges and requested jury trial. Pretrial hearing is set Aug. 3. Bond posted June 15 is continued at $10,000, 10%, with condition for no contact with the alleged victim.

Toni L. Golden, 38, of Royal appeared with her attorney, Martin Klein of Neligh, for further arraignment on two counts alleged May 8, near Orchard, driving under the influence, (more than .15) second offense, a Class 1 misdemeanor, and speeding, 86 mph in 65 mph zone, an infraction. Golden pleaded not guilty to both counts and requested jury trial. Pretrial conference is set Aug. 3.

Taylor continued arraignment to Aug. 3 for two defendants.

Raymond F. Poli, 45, of Neligh, whose case has been continued several times, again requested continuance to finish the process to obtain a driver’s license. Despite requesting court-appointed counsel June 1, and having the Antelope County public defender appointed to represent him, Poli appeared without counsel. When questioned by the judge he said he had not contacted the attorney. He said he had all the legal issues connected with his former license resolved and was studying to take the Nebraska driver’s examination. Poli was charged with having no operator’s license, when he was stopped Jan 21 in Neligh.

Dillon E. Perry, 34, of Ewing called requesting continuance on a charge of driving under suspension, alleged May 28 in Clearwater, due to having no ride to the courthouse.