FARMINGTON — A decision on bail is pending for Timothy Danforth, who is accused of fatally shooting a New Sharon man on June 1.
Franklin County Superior Court Judge William Stokes expected to make the decision and release a written order following a bail hearing Wednesday morning. He wanted more time to review the affidavit, he said.
Danforth, 24, was indicted by a grand jury Aug. 18 and pleaded not guilty Aug. 19 to a charge of intentional or knowing murder of Michael Reis, 24, outside of Danforth’s father’s house on Weld Road in Wilton.
A conviction on the charge is punishable by 25 years to life in prison.
From the affidavit, the court has found probable cause to believe Danforth committed a formerly capital offense, he said. The right to bail is extinguished, but the court has the discretion to set bail according to Maine law on Harnish hearings, he said.
The affidavit, which has been sealed as evidence in the case, lays out the events that led to the death of Reis.
Maine Assistant Attorney General Robert “Bud” Ellis, representing the state, spoke about Danforth being indicted on a murder charge by a grand jury. The Harnish hearing is also a factor, he said.
Danforth has said the shooting was self defense, but Reis was shot three times at close range over a debt owed for marijuana by Danforth’s father, Robert, Ellis said.
Due to the nature of the charge, Ellis favored no bail but if it is set, he asked for $150,000 cash bail.
Danforth’s attorney, Sarah Glynn of Paris, said the incident involved not only Robert Danforth but also a third party who was not present at the Weld Road home.
Timothy Danforth’s involvement centered on protection of his home and his father, she said.
“He was in fear for his safety,” she said.
Police said Reis was part of a group who went to the house and got into a confrontation with the home’s occupants, who included Danforth and his father.
She argued that Danforth has no history of criminal activity and has been cooperative. He has family ties here, a fiancée and employment. There is no history to suggest he would be a risk to the community, she said.
The affidavit indicates some use of alcohol earlier in the day by both father and son, she said when asked by the judge.
According to the law, the court may set bail unless the state can prove the defendant is at risk for not appearing in court, there is substantial risk that the defendant poses a danger to another or the community or substantial risk of the defendant committing new criminal activity.
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