LUSK – Appearing before Judge Randal Arp on January 11, in the Circuit Court of the Eighth Judicial District of and for Niobrara County, was Dimitri Richards for his bond appearance. 

Richards is one of two men accused of 56 counts of Game and Fish violations, believed to have occurred over the last three years. 

Richards was present with his attorney Austin Carmen of Gillette, for the purpose of setting a bond record. The state recommended several bond conditions for Richards, some of which were that Richards post 10 percent of a $5,000 bond, Richards not be allowed to leave the county unless for school activities, or doctors’ appointments, no possession of weapons, and that Richards maintained passing grades in school, to name a few. 

After taking the states recommendations into consideration, Judge Arp advised that “Considering the magnitude of the charges Richards could face if convicted, 50 years in prison, and over $400,000 in fines. 

The nature, scope, and magnitude of the allegations against him are extensive, and the consequences are significant.” Judge Arp also added he felt these charges would be taken very seriously by the court, the jury, and the state.

Judge Arp added to the state’s recommendations. He ordered 10 percent of a $10,000 bond be posted, Richards will be allowed to travel only on a supervised school bus for school activities. Any other travel has to be approved by the court. 

No violations of law, or court orders, he must keep his address and phone number current with the court and maintain contact with his attorney. 

No contact with the other defendant or his family. No alcohol/drugs, and he isn’t to be in any establishment or around any persons who serve or consume alcohol/drugs. Richards is subject to random testing. No weapons - guns, bows and arrows, and cannot be around any person who possesses weapons. 

No hunting license, and Richards must maintain good standing in school. 

The next hearing is set to take place in April 2019.