Attempted Murder Defendant Requests Bail Change

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In lieu of a mistrial, defense counsel for a defendant charged with attempted murder, requested a bail change for her client.

Lasheena Stewart, 38, is charged with attempted first-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, conspiracy attempted second-degree murder, first-degree assault, conspiracy first-degree assault, second-degree assault, conspiracy second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, and use of a firearm in violent crime in connection to her alleged involvement in an non-fatal shooting incident Nov. 22, 2019, that left a 13-year-old girl paralyzed.

Stewart is currently on home detention with work privileges. Her co-defendant, Antwan Newton, 21, is being held in jail.

After the Judge Cynthia Jones declared a mistrial Oct. 6, Stewart’s defense attorney Roya Hanna, she has not had any violations since 2020.

Hanna told Judge Jones that Stewart can’t take care of her children, referring to shopping for them or taking them places. Hanna said, Stewart’s sisters have stepped in to assist, but the defendant would like the opportunity to resume those types of duties, especially if the case is being sent back for another trial date.

It is possible that the next open trial date could not be until February or March of 2022, Hanna said.

Even though the prosecution did not object to the defendant’s request, Judge Jones said she typically does not change a defendant’s bail status. However, Judge Jones said she is willing to consider changing Stewart’s conditions on Oct, 12 if the defendant can get a screening from Pretrial Services by Monday.

Editor’s note: A jury found Antwan Newton not guilty on July 14. Lasheena Stewart’s case was dismissed on July 14.