Judge Rules Kust Violated Conditions

Menz, Esparza Appear In District Court

District judge David J. Cybulski ruled that Jason Allen Kust, 49, of Wolf Point failed to follow the conditions of his release from bond during a hearing on Wednesday, Sept. 15.

Roosevelt County chief deputy Patrick O’Connor testified that Kust failed a drug test and also attempted to contact a witness while he was out on bond.

Kust is facing the charges of possession with intent to distribute dangerous drugs and forgery.

The hearing was one of several cases to come in front of Cybulski on Sept. 15.

Melanie Rose Menz, 32, of Poplar made not guilty pleas to three charges in district court on Wednesday, Sept. 15.

Menz is facing the felony charge of burglary and the misdemeanor charges of criminal trespass to property and theft.

The omnibus hearing was scheduled for Oct. 13, and the trial was scheduled for Dec. 16.

Cybulski reduced the bail for Menz from $25,000 to $5,000.

Herman Munoz Esparza made not guilty pleas to 11 charges including the felony charges of criminal possession of dangerous drugs (meth) with the intent to distribute, criminal possession of dangerous drugs (heroin) and use or possession of property subject to criminal forfeiture.

Defense attorney Sally Kay Hickok requested that Esparza’s bond be reduced from $100,000 to $25,000. She noted that Esparza has lived in the area since April and would live with his girlfriend in Poplar.

County attorney Frank A. Piocos argued that Esparza has a lengthy criminal history, mainly in Las Vegas, Nev. He was released from prison just in April. Piocos believes him to be a flight risk.

“I came out here to start a new life,” Esparza said.

Cybulski denied the request to reduce the bond

amount.