Judge refuses to grant bail for Logan man accused of attempted murder

Booking photo of Benjamin Stoddard (Courtesy: Cache County Jail).

LOGAN — A judge has refused again to allow a 21-year-old Logan man, accused of attempting to kill a woman, to be released on bail.  Judge Brian Cannell said he was still concerned with the allegations against Benjamin Stoddard and the risk of the public’s safety.  He ordered him to remain in the Cache County Jail.

Stoddard appeared in 1st District Court Tuesday morning.  He has been charged with aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, and attempted aggravated murder, all first-degree felonies; and, domestic violence in the presence of a child, a third-degree felony.

Public defender Shannon Demler said his client is undergoing several evaluations, in preparation for trial or a plea agreement.  He had asked the court for bail, explaining that it would be easier to complete the evaluations.  He said it would also allow Stoddard to be able to go back to his job and get therapy help.

Cache County deputy attorney Dane Murray disagreed and said Stoddard posed a danger to the alleged victim and the community.  He asked the court to hold the defendant without bail.

The alleged victim told police that Stoddard, who previously lived at her residence, broke in and took some electronic equipment and other valuables.  When she confronted the suspect, he grabbed her by the throat, choking her until she passed out.

Stoddard reportedly fled the residence, taking the valuables with him.

The victim began to regain consciousness just as a family member came to the apartment. The relative told officers that the victim was pale and incoherent.

Officers found Stoddard nearby with the alleged stolen items.  He was taken into custody for questioning and later booked into jail.

During Tuesday’s court appearance, Judge Cannell granted time for Stoddard to complete the evaluations.  He ordered the defendant to appear again July 30.

Court records show Stoddard pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault in September 2018.  He was later sentenced to serve 60-days in jail.

Stoddard did not speak during Tuesday’s hearing.  He could face up to life in prison if convicted.


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