Judge reduces bail, grants expert request

WACO

Posted: Updated:

by Patrick Tolbert

WACO - Bail for a former pastor accused of killing his wife has been reduced to $250,000, half of it's original amount.

Judge Ralph Strother agreed to the lower bond amount for Matt Baker in a hearing Thursday. The judge put the condition on the bond reduction that no one from the defense may contact Vanessa Bulls, Baker's alleged girlfriend.

Judge Strother told both sides that he will enforce the gag order placed over the case;

BAKER SUMMARY

Bond reduced to $250,000
provided defense doesn't
contact alleged girlfriend.
Court will pay costs for
expert witnesses provided
Judge knows full cost.
Judge issues sealed motion
Trial date set for September

preventing attorneys and witnesses from publicly discussing the case.

Both sides met with the judge behind closed doors where Strother issued a sealed motion.

Strother also announced that the state will pay some of the costs of expert testimony provided the defense can give the court a total cost.

Judge Strother sat down with News Channel 25 Wednesday. He could not comment directly on the case but did say although it's not unheard of, it is rare to for an attorney to ask for court-appointed experts.

The motions basically requests the court to pay for consultation from psychology, toxicology, medical and crime scene reconstruction experts.

A trial date has been tentatively set for September.

You must be logged in to rate this story. Login or register

Comments

Terms of Use: We welcome your participation in our community. Please keep your comments civil and on point. You must be at least 13 years of age to post comments. By submitting a comment, you agree to these Terms of Service

You must be logged in to leave a comment. Login or register

See all comments

Close window Branding