Farrells’ Bond Hearing Continued

JASPER, Ga. – The Bond hearing for Neil Roger Farrell, 56, and Janet Lynn Farrell, 54, began today as they face charges in the case of Olivia Farrell.

However, the Bond Hearing has not reached a conclusion yet as the defense requested, and was granted, a continuance by Superior Court Judge Mary Beth Priest.

Both defendants are charged with Exploitation and Intimidation of Disabled Adults, False Imprisonment, and 2 counts of Cruelty to Children in the 1st Degree. The bond hearing was originally set for 2:00 p.m. today, June 28, to be heard by Magistrate Court. However, a release from the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office yesterday announced the hearing had changed to 10:00 a.m. to be heard by the Superior Court.

The day began with a delay as the defense requested an extra ten minutes to discuss matters with their clients and the prosecution. Both Attorneys for the prosecution and defense approached the bench twice during the delay as well.

Upon returning, an official motion was made for a continuance. According to the defense, the trial came up so quickly that they were unable to have all the supporters and preparation that they would have wanted for the bond hearing. While it was admitted that a continuation on a bond hearing is unusual, the request was made and granted based on the quick hearing and the changes to the hearing made only the day before.

However, as attempts were made to schedule the continuance, a specific date around the coming holiday week could not be reached immediately. Judge Priest did note that she was not assigned the case and another judge could hear it. With that in mind, she left the prosecution and defense to settle on a date and to schedule it with the appropriate judge.

Though no date has been set at this time, FYN will continue to offer updates when made available.