Perez Enters No Contest Pleas

Christian Alexander Perez of Williston, N.D., changed his plea to three counts during a hearing in district court on Tuesday, July 27.

Instead of guilty or not guilty pleas, Perez made the plea of “no contest” to one count of criminal possession of dangerous drugs with intent to distribute and two counts of criminal possession of dangerous drugs.

District judge David J. Cybulski wanted to make sure that Perez understood the pleas.

“You’re telling me you’ve look at all the reports and went over it with your lawyer,” Cybulski said. He asked Perez if he felt a jury would likely find him guilty.

“Yes, sir,” Perez answered.

Cybulski explained that Perez must feel that it’s in his best interest to enter the plea because a guilty verdict is likely.

County Attorney Frank Piocos said if the case went to trial, the State would prove that Perez had 18.44 grams of meth with the intent to distribute on April 24, and was in possession of meth on Feb. 28, in Roosevelt County. Also found were a scale and baggies.

Cybulski ordered a pre-sentencing investigation to take place.

Defense attorney Sally Kay Hickok requested that Perez be released on his own recognizance. He is hoping to stay with his mother in Williston.

Piocos opposed the motion because the two cases were back-to-back and Perez has no ties to Montana.

Cybulski granted the request as long as Perez completes all the required pre-sentencing paperwork. Unless if he’s working, Perez will be under house arrest.