A Colorado state judge recently ruled against lowering the bond for a Marine veteran charged with assaulting a television reporter. Patrick Egan, the defendant, is accused of attacking KKCO News reporter Ja’Ronn Alex while making derogatory comments about his citizenship and race, including shouting, “This is Trump’s America now.” Egan faces charges of second-degree assault with intent to cause bodily injury by strangulation, committing a bias-motivated crime, and harassment by ethnic intimidation.
During a court hearing, Judge Jennilynn Lawrence not only refused to reduce Egan’s $20,000 bond but also indicated she was considering raising it due to the seriousness of the crime. She expressed concern over the nature of the alleged attack, noting that it was not representative of the behavior expected from a Marine or from anyone in the community. The judge further emphasized that such actions were unacceptable.
Egan’s defense attorney, Ruth Swift, explained that her client had been struggling with mental health issues for over a decade and assured the court that he would seek appropriate treatment. Several of Egan’s friends and family members attended the hearing in support of him, with one friend, Ben Wilson, testifying that Egan had been like a brother to him for five years. Wilson described Egan as a person who had helped him in difficult times and was not acting like himself when the incident occurred.
Despite the defense’s arguments, prosecutors opposed any reduction in bond, citing the severity of the allegations and the victim’s objections. The district attorney’s office highlighted the “very concerning” nature of the crime, especially given that the victim was targeted due to his race. The victim, Alex, is of Pacific Islander descent, and he expressed his belief that the attack was racially motivated.
In addition to maintaining the bond amount, Judge Lawrence imposed strict conditions if Egan is released. He is prohibited from possessing firearms and must stay at least 1,000 feet away from Alex, including areas where Alex works. The judge emphasized that Egan should avoid places where reporters are present, instructing him to remove himself from such locations if encountered.
The incident occurred on December 18, when Egan, driving a taxi for a local company, allegedly followed Alex for about 40 miles to the news station where Alex worked. Once at the station, Egan reportedly tackled and choked Alex, who was able to escape with the help of his colleagues. Surveillance footage reportedly captured part of the attack. Alex later told police that Egan had demanded to see his identification and questioned his citizenship, making hostile remarks about his race and his role as a Marine.
This case has drawn attention due to the nature of the alleged assault, the racial motivations behind it, and the involvement of a former Marine. The legal proceedings are ongoing, and the outcome of the case will likely have significant implications for the defendant and the broader community.
