Ruling on motions in Bullock case-Bail denied

Both motions granted. Hon. Judge Dale Reinholtsen presided over the hearing today. The motion for the gag order was tentatively granted but is reset to be heard before Judge John Feeney on January 15 to define the parameters of the order.

County Counsel was present at the hearing regarding the protective order on publicity. County Counsel wanted clarification on the protective order and their concern was how that would limit the County's ability to respond to public record requests. Judge Reinholtsen had considered how the gag order would affect media so in order to research and make an informed ruling regarding the County (The County just showed up for this hearing after being served the order by defense) Reinholtsen "tenatively" granted the order. The final ruling is expected when Judge Feeney hears the case next week.

Regarding the motion to increase bail or deny bail, Judge Reinholtsen denied bail.

Prior to his decision, he heard from both lawyers. Bullock's attorney Kaleb Cockrum argued that Bullock had ties to the community because his wife and family are here and that raising bail was "beyond (Bullock's) assets".

Elan Firpo who is prosecuting the case countered Cockrum's claim that Bullock's wife is leaving the area because of this case and that own his family wants nothing to do with Bullock. She said he has means to raise bail and that he was a flight risk.