LOGAN — A judge has refused for the third time 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 wouldn’t consider it after state prosecutors voiced their concern that Benjamin D. Stoddard was a flight risk.
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 asked the court for more time so evaluators can complete their report. He also requested bail again, asking the court to consider allowing his client to be placed on pre-trial supervision.
Judge Cannell expressed concern again for the alleged victim’s safety and ordered Stoddard to remain in jail. He also set another pre-trial hearing for September 7.
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.
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.