Toyah Mayor Granted $100K Bond Despite Federal Offense Allegations
By: Katiera Winfrey
Updated: December 13, 2012
The judge granted bond in the amount of $100,000. To be released Sanchez's family would need to come up with 20 percent of the bond equaling $20,000.
Sanchez's defense attorney John Young said he's wasn't surprised that the bond was granted, but surprised by the amount of the bond.
The government asked for bond to be denied based on Sanchez being a potential flight risk along with further retaliation on witnesses. They say, evidence show Sanchez retaliated against a former city secretary by implementing a forced eviction. However, the argument from the government didn't sway the judge. While the bond was granted it's given with stiff stipulations.
"We expect he'll be tendering a resignation to the city council," said Young.
On top of the mandatory resignation, if the family can raise the $20,000 for the cost of the bond, Sanchez will also be required to follow a strict curfew by confining himself to the family residence between the hours of 9:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. Sanchez must further obtain and keep legal employment, and steer clear of any potential witnesses.
"His baby sister is on the city council and potentially a witness and that means the family can't be together for Christmas," said Young.
Young said the judge's stipulation make sense.
"I understand the judges concern, and I absolutely think those conditions place a safety net around Bart and potential witnesses."
Prior to the bond approval, the prosecution presented information to the court showing that Sanchez had mis-used over $200,000 in city funds for "personal items", often saying the money was spent for "mileage reimbursement".
An FBI agent took the stand to testify to the prosecution claims. To counter that testimony, witness testimony was also brought forth by member of the Toyah city council testifying to Sanchez's positive work ethic.
Sanchez is set to appear on the court docket January 2, and must meet the plea deadline by January 17 ultimately going to trial sometime in February of 2013.
