Tentative ruling by judge maintains custody of DUI murder suspect without bail

The attorneys for Karim Reyad argued before a judge that he has shown responsible behavior by attending all court hearings, following conditions of release, and turning himself in when ordered to do so. Reyad had been released for months to receive medical treatment, but had been taken into custody after allegedly speeding in a Dodge Charger Hellcat while under the influence of marijuana, causing a fatal crash that resulted in the death of Gayla Sue Price. Despite the defense’s arguments, Judge John Oglesby expressed concerns about Reyad’s behavior and the danger he may pose to the community. He gave a tentative ruling denying the defense motion for bail reconsideration, but said he would review the matter further and issue a ruling within two weeks.

Prosecutor Kacie Barrier argued that Reyad posed an “extreme public safety risk” and requested that he remain in custody without bail. Reyad is facing multiple charges, including second-degree murder, in connection with the crash that killed Price. Following the accident, Reyad was found to have THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, in his system. This was not the first incident involving impaired driving by Reyad, as he had been previously arrested a week earlier on suspicion of driving while impaired.

The fatal crash occurred on April 18, resulting in the death of Price and injuries to Reyad and a passenger. Reyad had been held in custody on no bail until September when he was ordered to be released by Judge Oglesby to receive specialized treatment. Despite reports indicating successful treatment, Reyad was returned to jail months later, with his attorney noting that he still has ongoing medical issues. Judge Oglesby expressed his concerns about Reyad’s self-destructive behavior and depression, which he believes present a danger to the community.

Judge Oglesby’s decision to deny the defense’s motion for bail reconsideration indicates his continued concerns about Reyad’s behavior and the danger he may pose to the community. Despite arguments from Reyad’s attorney about his responsible actions while out on release for medical treatment, the judge remains convinced of the risk Reyad poses. The prosecutor’s request for Reyad to remain in custody without bail underscores the severity of the charges he is facing, including second-degree murder. The judge has indicated he will review the matter further before issuing a final ruling within two weeks.

The case of Karim Reyad highlights the complexities of balancing concerns about public safety, individual responsibilities, and the legal process. Reyad’s history of impaired driving incidents, the fatal crash he was involved in, and the ongoing medical issues raise questions about his ability to safely reenter the community. The judge’s decision to deny a bail reconsideration speaks to the seriousness of the charges Reyad is facing and the need for a thorough review of the circumstances before determining his fate. As the legal process continues, the outcome will have significant implications for Reyad, the victim’s family, and the community as a whole.