A Colorado man accused of assaulting a television reporter in what authorities allege was a bias-motivated attack has a long history of mental health issues, his attorney told a judge during a court hearing.
Details of the Incident
Patrick Egan, 39, faces charges of assault, committing a bias-motivated crime, and harassment in connection with an attack on reporter Ja’Ronn Alex on December 18 outside the KKCO/KJCT television station in Grand Junction.
According to court documents, Alex, who is of Pacific Islander descent, reported that Egan had followed him while working as a taxi driver. During the confrontation, Egan allegedly questioned Alex’s citizenship and declared, “This is Trump’s America now,” before the assault.
Defense Cites Mental Health History
During Thursday’s hearing, Egan’s attorney, Ruth Swift, highlighted her client’s mental health struggles, stating he has been dealing with ongoing issues for over two decades. Swift noted that Egan is currently receiving treatment and has access to therapy and crisis services.
She argued that Egan has a support system of friends who would assist him if he were released from custody. However, Swift did not respond to follow-up inquiries from the Associated Press.
Supporters Advocate for Egan
One of Egan’s supporters, Ben Wilson, spoke in court on his behalf, expressing disbelief at the allegations.
“I have five kids, and he’s like family,” Wilson said. “When I got the news of what happened, (I thought) ‘That’s not Patrick.’”
Judge Denies Bond Reduction
Despite the defense’s argument, Judge JenniLynn Lawrence denied a request to lower Egan’s $20,000 cash bond. The judge cited Egan’s risk to community safety and concerns about his ability to appear at future court hearings.
Egan has since lost his job as a taxi driver. The court noted that the nature of the allegations and his prior mental health issues contributed to the decision to keep the bond unchanged.
Community and Legal Implications
The case has sparked discussions about mental health, bias-motivated crimes, and community safety. While Egan’s supporters argue for understanding and treatment, prosecutors and the court emphasize the need to address the alleged attack’s impact on the victim and the broader community.
Egan remains in custody as the case proceeds. Further hearings are expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the incident and Egan’s mental health history.
