BUCYRUS — Dallas Arnold of Galion appeared in Crawford County Common Pleas Court on Tuesday afternoon for the purposes of a competency exam.
Arnold, 25, is facing one count aggravated robbery, a first-degree felony punishable with up to 11 years in prison. According to allegations against Arnold, police officers were called to a residence by his parents. When police arrived, Arnold had ordered a dog to watch the officers. A physical altercation ensued when Arnold reportedly tried to take a taser from a police officer.
Arnold, who has been in the Crawford County jail on a $250,000 bond, is represented by court-appointed attorney, Joel Spitzer. Spitzer asked the court for a competency hearing to determine if Arnold can assist in his own defense.
Common Pleas Court Judge Sean Leuthold asked Arnold a series of questions to determine if he could indeed assist in his own defense. Arnold understood the concept of a trial, who the prosecution was and his role in a trial, who a defense attorney is and his role in a trial, why we have juries and what happens following a verdict.
Arnold told the court that he had never been in a trial and was anxious. He was also able to explain the nature of his charge and what the consequences could be. Arnold understood what it would mean for him if a jury of 12 found him not guilty.
Leuthold deemed Arnold competent.
“I don’t see any incompetency. I believe he can assist in his defense,” Leuthold said. “In fact, he appears intelligent and understands what’s going on here. Anyone who comes by me is going to get a fair trial.”
Spitzer asked the court if his client might a have a bond reduction and explained that his client had been beaten up in jail and had a possible orbital fracture. Leuthold noted the obvious injuries and ordered Arnold to be seen at the emergency department for further evaluation.
Leuthold told Arnold that he would decide after the evaluation on whether bond would stay the same, be reduced or he would be furloughed for medical treatment. The trial was scheduled to begin on Thursday but was rescheduled for October 1-2 in the Common Pleas Court.