George Alan Kelly: Arizona rancher charged with murder of Mexican migrant begs in court to speak to his wife
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, ARIZONA: During a recent court hearing, George Alan Kelly, 73, appears to beg a judge for his reading glasses and to be allowed to speak with his wife. The elderly Arizona rancher was taken into custody for allegedly fatally shooting a Mexican migrant, Gabriel Cuen-Butimea, 48, for trespassing on his property, on January 30.
Even though Arizona has stand-your-ground and trespassing laws, Kelly remains in custody in Santa Cruz County, Arizona on a single murder charge. Since the elderly man's arrest, there has been no proper interrogation, and the suspect Kelly was not given a chance to explain why he shot Cuen-Butimea, or how encountered the victim that led to the firing, claimed sources. His bail was set for $1 million which Kelly previously pleaded to the court to reduce his bond.
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What were George Alan Kelly's demands?
A new video emerged of Kelly, the rancher and amateur writer, asking judge Emilio Velazquez to allow him his reading glasses so he can read the charges against him. "May I ask a question your honor? I can't read without my reading glasses... they're not prescription just 1.5 magnification or something like that," the 73-year-old asked. Later he lauded the judge saying, "I am aware of everything I can hear and now, thanks to you, I'll be aware of everything I can read," reported Daily Mail.
Furthermore, his court-appointed attorney filed a two-week delay, citing she needs more time to prepare for Kelly's case. This means the Arizona native will have to wait at least two weeks to file a request or to avail a new attorney. During this, the judge ruled that Kelly was likely not "indigent" enough to receive a public defender. "Your honor may I ask you a question?" Kelly asked. "You used the word indigent, would you please give me your definition of indigent?" "Somebody doesn't make a certain amount - someone not making more than $ 20,000 a year," Velazquez responded. "That's more than accurate. I understand," a well-spoken Kelly replied. However, it is unclear if he makes more or less than $20,000 a year.
'I have not been able to talk with her or anyone'
However, at the end of the hearing, Kelly said, "Your honor may I ask one more question at an appropriate time?" "One moment please," Velazquez replied. After waiting some time, Kelly pleaded, "I noticed coming in, my wife is present in the court. May I ask her to make an appointment for audio visual conference?"
"I have not been able to talk with her or anyone," he alleged. The judge replied, "That's something that has to be discussed with the detention facility downstairs. If your wife wants communication with you she can go to the sheriff's office." Kelly said, "I appreciate you giving that instruction." Kelly will remain in jail until his next court date on February 22.