June 29, 2007 (A9)
W.F. man given more time to hire attorney
By Kristen M. Daum
kdaum@forumcomm.com
A 54-year-old West Fargo man, accused of pointing a gun at two 14-year-olds, was given on Thursday four more weeks to hire an attorney before the court proceeds with a preliminary hearing and arraignment in Cass County District Court.
David Lee Johnson, 1415 14th Ave. E., is charged with Class C felony terrorizing and misdemeanor carrying a concealed firearm, in connection with the May 25 incident.
Judge Wade Webb issued the continuance Thursday in Cass County District Court to ensure Johnson had the opportunity to hire an attorney to properly represent him.
Webb previously denied Johnson's application for a public defender, saying Johnson made too much income and did not qualify.
Johnson told Webb Thursday that he cannot afford his own attorney and wanted to proceed by representing himself.
But Johnson changed his mind when asked if he wanted a contested preliminary hearing, at which time Webb ordered the continuance.
During a preliminary hearing, the state must prove that there is probable cause to continue with the case.
Two 14-year-olds identified Johnson as the man they reported had pointed a gun at them on May 25. Authorities later found a loaded .45-caliber automatic pistol in Johnson's vehicle.
Johnson is next scheduled to appear in court on July 26.
© Kristen M. Daum, 2008-2009. All published content and associated logos copyright of respective publications.
