Sentencing postponed after new case filed in adjacent county

The Honorable Donna Taylor presided over Antelope County Court at the Antelope County courtroom in Neligh on Feb. 7. Handling prosecutor duties in the absence of Antelope County Attorney Joe Smith was Joe Hurd, special deputy county attorney.

Denis Kerkman, 90, of Tilden faced Taylor for sentencing on his latest conviction of violating a harassment protection order. Although Hurd indicated he had no evidence regarding sentencing, other than what was included in a presentence investigation report, he recommended probation with no jail time, a provision of a plea bargain in the case. Hurd also mentioned a Pierce County warrant.

Bailiff/deputy Lyle Juracek told Taylor that a sheriff’s office had a said warrant to serve on Kerkman.

In light of the warrant, which alleged yet another violation of the same protection order, Taylor continued sentencing until Feb. 21. Bond is continued, in the amount of $20,000, 10%, with an order for no contact, neither direct nor indirect, with victim. Taylor noted the PSI report recommended jail rather than probation due to the number of violations.

Kerkman has been convicted of two previous violations in Pierce County, where he was sentenced to jail for 180 days and 270 days, and one previous violation in Antelope County, for which he served 51 days. The domestic abuse protection order was issued April 13, 2022, and renewed April 13, 2023, in Boone County district court.

The Pierce County warrant was served following Kerkman’s court appearance. He was released after he posted $1,000, 10% of a $10,000 bond.

Kerkman is represented by Antelope County public defender Pat Carney.

Richard C. Jelich Jr., 28, homeless, faced Taylor on accusations he violated probation, mainly by not showing up for appointments. He waived his right to counsel and admitted the charges. Taylor judged him to be in violation, setting bond at $10,000, “at least until he meets with probation officer.” Jelich was sentenced to a 12-month term of probation in June for third-degree assault. Resentencing is set Feb. 21.

Kristopher T. Dorie, 39, of Albion appeared for a change of plea hearing and sentencing on a count of third-degree assault, alleged Aug. 22. Carney told the judge an issue had come up regarding restitution and requested the hearings be continued. Taylor continued them to Feb. 21.

***

A pretrial hearing for Tyler S. Zawacky, 30, of Elgin, was continued to March 6 on charges of leaving scene of property-damage accident, no proof of financial responsibility and fictitious plates, all alleged Oct. 28, 2023.

Pretrial conference for Cameron J. Schindler, 19, of Neligh was continued to March 6 on charges in two cases. Charges include a Class 3 misdemeanor, minor in possession of alcohol, alleged Oct. 7 and three alcohol-related charges alleged Oct. 15, Count I, driving under the influence, a Class W misdemeanor; Count II, MIP; and Count III, speeding, an infraction. Personal recognizance bond is continued in the amount of $1,500.