A man on probation after pleading guilty to DUI in July and testing positive for meth Nov. 12 was denied a motion for release on bond. He ended up pleading to the violation and received a sentence to serve.
Last Tuesday, Robert Lloyd Hardwick, 41, asked Criminal Court Judge Shawn Fry for release from jail on a “reasonable bond.”
Defense attorney Jonathan Hamby argued consideration should be given because Hardwick surrendered to authorities Dec. 3 after learning a probation violation warrant had been issued for his arrest.
In addition, Hardwick is an eight-year resident of Cumberland County, he is employed in the construction business, had three people in the courtroom willing to testify on Hardwick’s behalf and in the past has never failed to appear in court on 14 occasions since his July 26, 2023, arrest.
Most importantly, Hamby told the court, he has a 2-month old son with whom he would like to spend the holidays.
“I think he is a good candidate for bond,” said Hamby.
Assistant District Attorney Philip Hatch countered the state has concern over the safety of the community in light of Hardwick’s blood/alcohol test coming back at .37% when arrested. Tennessee considers .08 too intoxicated to drive.
“It’s a double-edge sword, I fear,” Judge Fry noted. “I understand he wants to be home for Christmas … your child relies on you. If that doesn’t motivate you, nothing I can do will.”
Fry then denied the bond motion.
After conferring with his attorney, Hardwick then pleaded guilty to violating conditions of his probation and is to serve 60 days in jail at 75% with credit for 14 days already served.
In other cases on the docket, the following took place:
Probation
•Shadayda Storm Farris, probation violation hearing continued to Jan. 6.
•William Michael Lance, pleaded guilty to a probation violation and was given credit for time served and completion of a recovery treatment program. He was placed back on probation with Aug. 13 date set for tracking.
•Clarence David Lamance, probation violation hearing continued to Jan. 6 with Recovery Court application pending.
•Țara Ashley Lockard, probation violation warrant dismissed.
•Summer Lee Williams, Public Defender’s Office appointed to represent Williams. A motion to dismissed two probation violation warrants based on failure to meet the law requiring the warrants be signed before a judge. It is expected a new warrant will be issued.