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Judge Denies Bail For Oregon Standoff Arrestee Ritzheimer

Jon Ritzheimer
(Photo courtesy of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office)
Jon Ritzheimer was arrested in Arizona in connection to the Oregon standoff.

An Arizona man who was arrested in connection with the armed occupation of a wildlife refuge in Oregon has been denied bail.

A U.S. magistrate judge decided Jon Ritzheimer will be detained in Oregon as the criminal case against him proceeds. Ritzheimer and 10 others are charged with conspiracy to impede federal officers.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Eileen Willett decided Ritzheimer cannot be released because he is a flight risk and a danger to the community.

Earlier this week, a federal prosecutor showed the judge videos Ritzheimer posted to social media where Ritzheimer stated his willingness to die for the cause and threatened critics. In her order, the judge said they showed a propensity for violence.

The judge also noted Ritzheimer has a history of mental health issues, tested positive for marijuana and does not have ties in Oregon where his criminal case will continue.

Jude Joffe-Block was a senior field correspondent at KJZZ from 2010 to 2017.