John Chiv: Mauricio Johnson makes an offer to resolve case the day of his preliminary hearing

Jul 1, 2021

Mauricio Johnson makes an offer to resolve case the day of his preliminary hearing

Preliminary hearing for Bear River homicide suspect Mauricio Johnson was scheduled for July 1. At the last hearing, it was indicated time estimate and date could change. It is now 1 or 2 days.

Ms. Andrea Sullivan is Johnson's attorney. Deputy District Attorney Roger Rees is the prosecutor for the case.

There was a surprise twist this morning.

First, Judge Kaleb Cockrum asked the attorneys to approach. I assume about courtroom availability today. Then, attorneys spoke outside court. Ms. Sullivan spoke with Johnson's family. Then, she spoke with Johnson. Then, attorneys spoke again.Mr. Rees asked to approach. Ms. Sullivan spoke to Johnson.

Judge Cockrum officially called the case. He said a courtroom would be available likely this afternoon or tomorrow morning.

Mr. Rees said defense has made an offer to resolve before preliminary hearing. He said District Attorney Maggie Fleming wants to be personally involved and discuss the offer with the victims' families and community.

Ms. Sullivan requested a setting in 30 days, "due to the complexity of the matter." Mr. Rees agreed if Johnson entered a time waiver.

Johnson entered a time waiver. Setting is scheduled for August 2.

Mr. Rees at the end of the hearing asked Judge Cockrum, "will the defendant be personally present?" This was for the next hearing.

Johnson has a no bail warrant so where is he going to go? Unless Ms. Sullivan files a motion regarding bail, which I am sure will be opposed.

Johnson has been charged with three counts of murder; one special allegation of personally and intentionally discharging a firearm causing great bodily injury/death and one special allegation of multiple murder.

Two people were there for Johnson. I don't know if they are family but I assume they are because they conferred privately with Ms. Sullivan.

There were several people there to support the victims. I assume at least some were family. There is a lady I see for different cases involving tribal members so not sure what her role was today.

The local Moon family is huge. Some members are law abiding and others are not. Courtroom 2 is small and there were at least 10 people there for this case.