Uncertainty continues in the case of Suzanne Simpson's disappearance as a judge postponed a decision on the bond amount for James Cotter, a business associate of Simpson's husband. Cotter faces charges related to tampering with evidence and possessing prohibited weapons. His attorneys argued that the $1 million bond was "unconstitutional," stating, "The entire purpose here is to keep him in jail as long as possible to try and force him to cooperate, and that’s not the basis of bail bonds in the State of Texas," according to KENS 5.
Friends of Suzanne, who has been missing since October 7, appeared in court with flyers, seeking closure. The prosecution argued that Cotter is strongly loyal to Brad Simpson and willing to protect him at any cost. Prosecutor Casey Sandoval stated, "He has shown he will do whatever he needs to protect him," in response to the defense's request for a bond reduction, as obtained by KSAT.
The debate over James Cotter's bond continues, with his financial situation being examined. Cotter's attorney argued for a reduced bond, claiming that a high bond was being used to force cooperation. The state presented evidence, including text messages, stating, "The text messages (the judge) read in the affidavit… He was willing to meet him and hide his fully automatic machine gun," as reported by KENS 5.
The decision on the adjusted bond amount has been delayed until Tuesday afternoon, when Cotter's family will testify about his ability to pay. Despite the state's objection, with prosecutors arguing, "The defense has had ample time to prepare this evidence… several weeks," the judge agreed to the delay. Brad Simpson is scheduled for arraignment on November 13, as mentioned by KENS 5.