Overview
- Circuit Judge Robin Green found probable cause and set bond at $750,000 for Michael Hogue and $500,000 for Amanda Penny on first-degree murder and firearm-possession accusations.
- Prosecutors sought high bonds, citing the case’s strength and describing Hogue as a habitual offender with a history of violence and failure to appear.
- Penny was also described by prosecutors as a habitual offender, and her attorney noted she is seven months pregnant and receiving care outside the jail.
- Arraignments are set for January 5, and the judge ordered both defendants to have no contact with Nikel’s family or his minor child.
- Hogue and Penny were arrested Monday and jailed in Benton County; court records say Nikel was shot July 11 near Arkansas Highway 12 after an altercation involving Hogue.