YUMA, AZ - 27-year-old Maricela Sanchez appeared before Yuma County Superior Court Judge Maria Elena Cruz for her arraignment Monday morning.
Sanchez, who led police on a high-speed chase on westbound Interstate 8 between Tacna and the Yuma Foothills in January, is unemployed and cannot afford her own attorney.
"It is ordered, appointing the Public Defender's Office in all three matters," says Judge Cruz to Sanchez and two other defendants who were being seen on separate matters. "Attorney's fees are assessed in the amount of $750."
The Yuma County Public Defender's Office requested a Release Hearing and Conditions of Release for Sanchez.
"In the Sanchez matter, a Conditions of Release Hearing is set for February 23, 2012 at 1:30 p.m. in Division 3," says Judge Cruz. "A Conditions of Release report shall be prepared."
22-year-old Jonathan Rios also appeared before Judge Cruz Monday morning with his attorney, William Crimmins. Rios entered not guilty pleas on charges of child abuse and aggravated assault.
Rios and his 19-year-old girlfriend, Stephanie Gregston, were arrested last month for the injuries suffered by her twins, who both sustained broken bones and bruises.
Crimmins also requested a Conditions of Release Hearing for Rios. Judge Cruz scheduled that hearing for February 22nd at 8:30 a.m. with Yuma County Superior Court Judge John Nelson.
