Man Doesn’t Change Plea During Hearing

Herman Munoz Esparza was scheduled to change his plea to charges in district court on Wednesday, Nov. 10, but he then decided that he wanted more time to consider the plea agreement.

Esparza of Minot, N.D., is facing 11 charges including three felonies after a vehicle chase that went from Wolf Point to Valley County on Aug. 27. The felony charges are 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.

Esparza said that because of COVID restrictions, he hasn’t been able to talk face to face with public defender Sally Kay Hickok regarding the plea agreement.

“Over the phone is different than in person,” Esparza said.

District judge David J. Cybulski explained that the plea agreement includes several sentences lasting six years to run concurrently.

“Are you sure you know what’s going on?” Cybulski asked Esparza.

Esparza answered, “I rather postpone it. I just want a better understanding of this deal.”

The hearing was postponed until Dec. 15.