BUCYRUS—Jason Tupps, 46, of Galion, appeared in Crawford County Common Pleas Court on Thursday for his first official arraignment and bond hearing.

The former corrections officer was arraigned on one count of rape, a felony of the first degree, and one count of domestic violence, a felony of the fourth degree. If convicted, Tupps could face more than 16 years in prison.

Retired visiting Judge Howard Hall is presiding over the case, and special prosecutor Drew Wood is prosecuting the case. Tupps is represented by Mansfield attorney James Mayer III.

Judge Hall entered Tupps official not guilty plea and allowed the state and defense to argue the issue of bond. Bond was originally set at $750,000 at Tupps’ first appearance in the Crawford County Municipal Court.

Mayer argued that bond on Tupps was excessive. He told the court that, to his knowledge, there were no injuries to the alleged victim and that she waited a full twelve days after the alleged rape to report it to police. Mayer further asserted that there was no sexual assault examination completed on the victim. He said Tupps had remained in the marital home after the alleged assault. Most notably, Mayer asserted that Tupps and the victim had consensual sex after the date of the alleged rape.

Mayer said that his client would abide by any bond conditions. He voluntarily agreed to a GPS monitor, a SCRAM bracelet to detect alcohol consumption, living with his parents in Crawford County, permission to do a full residential sweep of the home to ensure no presence of firearms and no contact with the victim. In addition to those conditions, Mayer asked that bond be reduced to $25,000.

Special Prosecutor Wood adamantly argued for a much higher bond. Wood told the court that the victim did have injuries. “There were threats made. This is a crumbling marriage, alcohol is involved, violence is involved, and he has gone to the victim’s place of employment and caused disturbances.” Wood said.

Wood also agreed that if released on bond, a GPS monitor and scram monitor should be used and activated before Tupps is released from custody.

Judge Hall set Tupps’ bond at $100,000. He must be fitted for a GPS and SCRAM monitor. If he makes bond and resides with his parents, their house must be swept for firearms. He must report weekly to the Crawford County Adult Probation Department and submit to random drug and alcohol testing.

Judge Hall set the next pretrial for October 22 at 9 am in the Crawford County Common Pleas Court.