Not guilty plea entered for drug charges

In 20th District Judicial Court on Tuesday, Jake Wieckowski pleaded not guilty to felony charges of criminal possession of dangerous drugs and criminal possession of drug paraphernalia. Wieckowski was arrested October 16 on an outstanding warrant. During that arrest he was found to possess a pipe that tested positive for methamphetamine as well as a small amount of the substance, according to charging documents. His attorney, Kirk Krutilla, argued for his release, and Wieckowski contended it was because he was in town to take care of his mother who has brain cancer. Deputy County Attorney Cheryl Copperstone mentioned in court that Wieckowski has several previous failures to appear for hearings on past charges, none of which were felonies. Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher granted Wieckowski’s release, with conditions. His trial date has been set for April 2, 2022.

Dimas Renteria also appeared before Judge Christopher on Tuesday, addressing a petition to revoke his parole. His attorney, Krutilla, argued that he should be released due to having been attending anger management courses through Zoom and having an income. Parole officer Lynn Bierwagen testified that Renteria is violent when under the influence and needs an evaluation. She said she has concerns that he will use again if released. Renteria’s release was denied, and a hearing has been set for January 4 to update the court on if Renteria has been able to receive a chemical dependency evaluation.