It has been almost a month since 19-year-old Arnel L. Bell of Lake Havasu was shot and killed, and police officials have yet to release a case report for the incident. But as lawyers seek the suspect’s release from custody, court documents could reveal arguments that could be used in the defendant’s future trials.
Havasu resident Angel F. Caldera, 22, has been held at the Mojave County Jail on $1 million bail since May 18. On Wednesday, Havasu-based attorney Michael Frame filed a motion seeking a reduction or cancellation of the bail, but Frame said the request is expected to be opposed by prosecutors. Frame also submitted a list of defenses that could be used in Caldera’s trial on Wednesday.
According to the document, Frame denies all charges against Caldera and argues that the shooting may have been justified under Arizona Revised Laws 13-403 and 13-411.
These laws are intended to prevent persons subject to the use of lethal force from committing acts of arson, robbery, kidnapping, manslaughter, murder, sexual assault, armed robbery, aggravated assault, or to protect their bodies. It indicates that lethal force can be used in the event of immediate need to do so. Others are seriously harmed. In such circumstances, Arizona law provides that those who use force in such a manner are under no obligation to withdraw before doing so.
Frame is now seeking a reduction in Caldera’s security deposit. Frame’s filing Tuesday said Caldera had a minor criminal record, intended to wear an ankle monitor when released, and expected to remain employed until a pending trial date.
Caldera has lived in the City of Lake Havasu for five years and has family in the Havasu area that may provide her with support and housing while she awaits trial.
Frame admitted this week that his client was in Mojave County Jail custody and was asked to release him on the condition that he wear an ankle monitor to track his location or have his $1 million bond reduced. requested.
On May 17, Mr. Bell was shot at a house on Block 2500 of McCulloch Boulevard. Paramedics attempted life-saving measures at the scene, but Bell eventually died from his injuries. Officers questioned Caldera in the incident and later charged him with second-degree murder hours after the shooting.
A police report on the incident could be released later this week, police sources said.
As of Wednesday morning, the Mojave County Attorney’s Office has not yet filed a motion in the Mojave Superior Court opposing Frame’s claims.
