Court Beat 12/09/2022
 | Author:
Dee Gannon
MT43 News Correspondent |
Court Beat 12-9-22
Dee Gannon
The criminal docket in Judge Michael McMahon’s courtroom on Friday, December 9 is as follows:
Amanda Castona appeared for a Change of Plea; pleading Guilty to a charge of criminal endangerment. In her elocution, she stated that on December 24, 2021, she had an altercation with her sister; where her sister was reasonably fearful of injury. She will be sentenced on January 13, 2023.
Brittney Betts had an Evidentiary Hearing on a Petition to Revoke (her 5th); admitting to the report of violation. In elocution, she admits to two counts of using social media to harass others; using social media to create a separate account in order to harass; and calling a person to harass another on social media. She is Sentenced to D.O.C. Pre-Release in order to receive mental health treatment. She will go to M.A.S.C. (Missoula Assessment and Sanction Center) and have further treatment as recommended. Betts will have to participate in MRT (Moral Recognition Therapy), before release. She is to pay fees and surcharges of $80.
John Hart had a Change of Plea: pleading Guilty to a sixth DUI. In his elocution, he stated he was driving under the influence in Broadwater County. He is Sentenced to 10 years D.O.C. with five years suspended. He has a $5,000 fine, but his credit time served applies to that at $75 a day.
Seth Anderson had an Initial Appearance and Arraignment; pleading Not Guilty to charges of criminal possession of dangerous drugs, driving without a license and criminal possession of drug paraphernalia. Omnibus is due February 18; Pre-Trial is June 16; with the Jury Trial scheduled for July 17, 2023.
James Swan lll had a Change of Plea and Sentencing to a charge of partner/family member assault. In his elocution, he stated that “I caused pain and injury to my father”, He has completed 32 hours of Anger Management. He must register as a Violent Offender. Swan stated, “I messed up and take accountability for it” He is Sentenced to three years, deferred. He must have a chemical dependency evaluation, as well as a mental health evaluation. He is to complete eight more hours of Anger Management. He was taken into custody.
