Court Beat - September 1, 2023
 | Author:
Dee Gannon, MT43 News Correspondent
MT43 News Correspondent |
September 1, 2023
Dee Gannon
MT43 News Correspondent
The criminal docket in Judge Micheal Menahan’s courtroom on Friday, September 1 is as follows:
Adam Lee’s Sentencing is continued until December 1.
Raymond Harbeck appeared in court for Sentencing; after pleading guilty to two charges of incest. One case in Broadwater County, and one in Gallatin County. He has had two mental health evaluations; ending in a diagnosis of dissociative identity disorder (DID); (what the layman would refer to as split personality) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder L(PTSD). In his elocution, he stated that he was driving to Montana from Arizona, when he turned himself in, knowing he had DID and PTSD. Finding him brutally honest, the court sentenced him to 40 years in Montana State Prison, with 20 years suspended. He must abide by all conditions; pay fees and surcharges totaling $80 and submit to DNA testing.
Randall Buffington had an Initial Appearance and Arraignment; pleading Not Guilty to assault with a weapon. Omnibus is due October 13; Pre-Trial is set for January 12, 2024; with the Jury Trial scheduled for February 5.
Joseph Johnson had a Change of Plea; pleading Guilty to criminal possession of dangerous drugs (meth). In his elocution, he stated simply that while he was in Broadwater County, he possessed what he knew to be methamphetamine. He must abide by standard conditions. He received a deferred sentence of four years.
Christopher Jones had a Change of Plea; pleading Guilty to the amended charge of criminal trespass to property, criminal mischief and partner/family member assault. In his elocution, he stated that while in Broadwater County, he kicked in the door, entered the residence and caused a reasonable apprehension of bodily harm. Sentence: his 20-day credit for time served shall go to restitution of the door. He receives 6 months for the trespass charge; and one year for the assault; he must pay $250 to the Office of Public Defender; he must attend anger management for 40 hours, and he must pay mandatory fines and surcharges of $75.
