Perez, Turcotte Make Not Guilty Pleas

Christian Alexander Perez and Hattie Lei Turcotte each made their initial appearances in district court on Tuesday, March 23.

Perez made not guilty pleas for the charges of criminal possession of drugs, a felony, and criminal possession of drug paraphernalia, a misdemeanor.

His omnibus hearing was set for April 14, and his trial was scheduled for June 17.

Defense attorney Sally Kay Hickok requested a reduction of Perez’s $35,000 bond. She noted that Perez lives in Williston, N.D., with his mother.

County Attorney Frank Piocos argued that Perez doesn’t have ties to Roosevelt County and the seriousness of the crime.

District Judge David Cybulski decided to reduce bond to $5,000 and allow Perez to live in Williston.

Turcotte made not guilty pleas for the charges of criminal possession of drugs, a felony, and criminal possession of drug paraphernalia, a misdemeanor.

An omnibus hearing was scheduled for April 14, and the trial date is June 17.

Hickok requested a reduction of Turcotte’s $75,000 bond. Turcotte has three children in Williston.

Chief deputy Pat O’Connor, called by county attorney Piocos, testified that Turcotte’s criminal history includes being arrested at least nine times during 2020. He said at least three of those offenses were felonies.

Hickok noted the latest cases in North Dakota were dismissed. After O’Connor listed different offenses, Turcotte said at least six of the charges were dismissed.

Cybulski ruled to keep the bond at $75,000.