by Audrey Thomasson
LANCASTER—The following cases were heard in Lancaster County Circuit Court on January 20 by Judge R. Michael McKenney.
Rosa Maria Turner’s request for a court appointed attorney was turned down because her stated income of $36,000 was above the $14,000 ceiling. She was in court without an attorney on probation violation for non-payment of restitution to a local financial institution. She was told to hire an attorney. Trial was set for 9 a.m. April 28.
“It’s in your best interest to make those payments,” the judge warned Turner.
Brandon T. Fischer was in court on probation violation for non-payment of restitution. Defense attorney Thomas Hughes said Fischer and his wife are unable to work because of disabilities, but that his client promised to pay as soon as his back disability payment was received. Judge McKenney read through a long list of continuances on Fischer’s case.
“There’s a day coming for Mr. Fischer,” he warned. “I’ll continue to next Friday and we will continue every Friday until restitution is paid.”
Deondre Lampkin voluntarily appeared in court before a capias warrant was served on a probation violation. Because of his cooperation, the judge released him on his own recognizance and set a hearing for March 24. The judge warned Lampkin to stay in touch with his probation officer, or he “…may be serving time in jail.” After Lampkin agreed to start paying $100 a month for court costs, the judge granted a restricted license that allows him to drive to and from work.
Maria F. Thompson was declared unfit to stand trial on eight felony and four misdemeanor forgery and uttering charges, after a psychiatric evaluation was entered. The judge assigned her to a treatment hospital until restoration of her competency. He ordered a case review for April 28 and cancelled a trial that had previously been set for February 17.
