Lyon County prosecutors are gauging the effectiveness of a new approach to a crowded docket.
This past Friday, the County Attorney’s Office used so-called settlement conferences– listed on the docket as mediation hearings — for the first time. County Attorney Marc Goodman says this follows Kansas Supreme Court directives due to coronavirus and closely resembles the civil mediation process.
Lyon County used a judge from the Eighth District to hear the cases Friday. The judge discusses matters with both sides separately before either reaching a resolution or seeing the case take the next step forward.
Two notable cases Friday went to plea agreements. Aaron Coxwell, facing trial on conspiracy, theft, attempted theft, burglary and other charges in connection to the Kari’s Diamonds and Bridal burglary last year, pleaded no contest to single counts of burglary and criminal damage. Greg Goad, who had been charged with 30 counts, including aggravated criminal sodomy, kidnapping, aggravated assault, aggravated battery and other charges, made a separate plea on two counts each of aggravated domestic battery and attempted kidnapping.
A third notable case involving Miguel Renterio was set for a competency hearing later this year. Renterio is accused of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and drug possession.
