John Chiv: Judicial Council emergency rule almost got a child abuse suspect released, thankfully Judge Wilson's ruling protects the Jane Does

Apr 10, 2020

Judicial Council emergency rule almost got a child abuse suspect released, thankfully Judge Wilson's ruling protects the Jane Does

Gaylia Wilson, one of the Humboldt Hill child abuse suspects had an OR bail hearing scheduled on April 10. She is represented by Mr. Joe Judge.

On April 6, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Judicial Council approved 11 temporary emergency rules, including setting bail statewide at $0 for misdemeanors and lower-level felonies to “safely reduce jail populations.” The Court has discretion.

I watched Judge Christopher Wilson rule on a few cases before Wilson's case was called. Each case is different and Judge Wilson explained his ruling to grant or deny the $0 bail request after hearing from attorneys.

Her co-defendant, Christopher Best was not on calendar. He is represented by Ms. Andrea Sullivan.

Both were scheduled for a change of plea on April 17. Wilson is now scheduled for a change of plea/setting.

Deputy District Attorney Carolyn Schaffer is the prosecutor for both cases.

"The People recognize she is legally entitled to $0 bail," said Ms. Schaffer. "On behalf of the two Jane Does, the People object. They have expressed a desire for Ms. Wilson to stay behind bars as long as legally possible. They endured tremondous abuse at her hand from two separate individuals while she stood idly by."

As I reported previously, in addition to Best, Wilson housed another convicted molestor, Everett Spillard.

Mr. Judge said his client is not a flight risk. That there was exculpatory discovery and he had informed Ms. Schaffer via email. He referred to a letter from DHHS "that seems to throw this case in a different light. That deal will be vacated is what I am saying."

Mr. Judge said that Wilson has a place to stay and he is confirming that with her daughter in Sacramento. Wilson has a house in Humboldt and there is a criminal protective order in place. Wilson has also given up her parental rights.

"While Ms. Wilson falls under Rule 4, I am not inclined to do this at this time," said Judge Wilson. Reduction for $0 bail was denied without prejudice. Judge Wilson said the allegations are serious and under normal circumstances, this would not be an appropriate case for $0 bail.

Charges: