Ryan Hardman, of Arnoldsburg, WV, facing two charges of Gross Child Neglect and Conspiracy appeared before Judge Anita Ashley on Tuesday, July 25th, 2023 requesting a reduction in bond. Hardman’s bond was set at $100,000 at the time of arrest with the condition of no contact with his children. Defense Attorney Daniel Minardi argued that due to there being no criminal history or no intentional injury, stating that the physical abuse was related to Mrs. Hardman, and because of that he believed the bond was not reasonable and contact with the children should be lifted. “He has family here and he will comply with the conditions,” Minardi said, requesting the bond be reduced to $20,000.
Judge Anita Ashley, did not however agree, stating that the evidence showed physical abuse mainly by the mother, but the defendant knew of the abuse and neither parent was meeting the nutritional needs of the children, letting them go days without eating.
Prosecuting Attorney Nigel Jeffries stated that he believed Ryan Hardman was a flight risk because of the harsh penalties he was facing and the fact that he had moved back to West Virginia from New Mexico, proving their ties were not that tight in Calhoun County. Jeffries requested that the Judge deny the motion.
Judge Ashley did modify the bond, but not in the direction requested. Hardman’s Bond was increased to $150,000. It was changed from cash, to surety or property and there remained no contact with the children. The case will likely be presented to the Grand Jury in September.
This judge and Prosecuting Attorney should be highly praised for their swift and firm action in this case. Great Job!