Lawyer wants alleged Ohio crime client to stay in jail because ‘it’s the safest place for him’ amid death threats

BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO (WTRF) – Accused murderer Brian Melott was arraigned Monday on two counts of murder and one count of voluntary manslaughter.

The 21-year-old Bellaire man allegedly shot 19-year-old David Allen on April 27 outside the Francis Wallace Apartments.

Protection initial he wanted to ask for a lower bond. Melott’s current bond is $1 million.

But it seems a last-minute development has landed the defense attorney in a very good spot different bond motion — for the life and safety of his client.

“There have been death threats against my client as well as his family. So I would like to be able to give the court an address privately where we can be sure he is there and possibly do some home confinement to protect him. Until that is achieved, I have no problem with my client remaining in prison because that is the safest place for him.”

JOSH NORMAN – DEFENDER

The two murder charges each carry a life sentence with the possibility of parole after 15 years, and the voluntary manslaughter charge carries an eleven year sentence. All three have a gun spec attached, each carrying three more years.

Melott pleaded not guilty.

Judge John Vavra will rule on the bond motions at a later date.