Hunt arraigned on Felony 1 Aggravated Burglary
By Bob Robinson

GREENVILLE – Jason Lee Hunt, the suspect arrested following an alleged forced entry into a residence in New Madison on Jan. 12, was arraigned in Darke County Common Pleas Court Jan. 14 on a Felony 1 Aggravated Burglary charge. The arraignment took place by video from the Darke County Jail.

Darke County Common Pleas Judge Jonathan Hein advised Hunt of his rights, noting the F1 charge could result in a maximum 11 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. He added they were not mandatory.

Hunt, 20, is accused of busting through a locked door, brandishing a small handgun, loading it and pointing it at a 21-year-old female’s head. According to the arrest report he physically assaulted her and threatened to kill her if she didn’t leave with him. She refused and he eventually left, reportedly continuing his threats. Several hours later, while Darke County deputies were looking for him, his family called to advise he would turn himself in. He was taken into custody that afternoon.

Darke County Prosecutor Kelly Ormsby told the court this was a serious allegation. He noted the investigation is still ongoing.

“There will likely be a firearms specification,” he said, “as well as other possible charges.” The firearms specification would include a mandatory three years in prison. Ormsby requested at least a $50,000 bond be placed on Hunt.

Hunt’s attorney, Curtis Moore, advised the court he had just been retained and would need to review the evidence with his client. He pointed out, however, Hunt did turn himself in voluntarily.

Hein, in ordering the bond, said if it was met one of the conditions would be electronic house arrest. Ormsby requested the conditions also include no contact with the victim.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for later in January.

Published courtesy of The Early Bird