A Memphis man accused of opening fire on security guards at a local lounge was released on a $500 bond, a decision that has sparked controversy over bail practices. The suspect, Nickeles Bundy, 23, was arrested following an incident at the CRU Lounge, where, after causing a disturbance, he was asked to leave and allegedly began shooting at two security guards outside the establishment.
According to Action News 5, the officers who responded to the shooting claim Bundy was irrate and his clothes reeked of alcohol. Surveillance video also reportedly captured Bundy shooting in the direction of the guards. When he was taken into custody, police discovered a Glock 43X in his waistband, further complicating his case with charges for aggravated assault, and possession of a gun while intoxicated.
The bond amount quickly to raised questions among legal experts and members of the community. "In my opinion as a criminal defense attorney, I do think that bond is too low," informed Attorney Charles Mitchell in an interview with FOX13 Memphis. Echoing his professional perspective with personal concern, he added, "Charles Mitchell, the citizen of Shelby County, I think that bond should be $100,000."
Factors such as a defendant's age, criminal history, family ties, and mental health are typically weighed when deciding on a bond amount. Mitchell expressed that the safety of the community should be a paramount consideration, especially when an intoxicated individual discharges a firearm in public. "It has to take into account the safety of the community," he stated, insisting that the circumstances of the crime need to be considered. Despite these views, Bundy was able to walk free on the nominal bond, a move some see as part of a broader trend towards bail reform, as reported by FOX13 Memphis.
Further details emerged from a WREG report, noting that in addition to the altercation, two bystander vehicles were hit during the shooting—a Mazda CX-7 and a Jeep Renegade, which suffered severe damage. Memphis Police Department also found nine 9mm spent casings at the scene, along with bullets and live rounds, underscoring the potential danger posed by the incident.
