The first appearance for Phillips, who has an outstanding warrant from Pennsylvania for allegedly stealing her mother’s car — not the car they were in when Taylor was shot — did not come without objections from her court appointed attorney, Jamal Summey.
Summey argued the 43-year-old Phillips was not a flight risk, that she was homeless and from out of state.
Summey argued bond should be set within the guidelines of what she is charged with — accessory after the fact of attempted murder, possession of a stolen vehicle and possession of a stolen firearm.
Summey told Judge Branch he had only briefly talked with Phillips and understand she had no previous record, other than two DWI charges.
Halifax County District Attorney Melissa Pelfrey countered Edgerton had a lengthy record that included firearms violations. “She was with someone who was running from probation and who was under court supervision.”
Pelfrey said Phillips willingly went with Edgerton and helped him hide the car that was stolen and fled from law enforcement at a public place, Halifax Academy, where she had every opportunity to turn herself in but declined to do so.
Summey argued whatever bond was set, because Phillips is homeless, “She’s not going to make that anyway.”
Pelfrey said Roanoke Rapids investigators confirmed Phillips was wanted for allegedly stealing her mother’s car. “Every day, the court errs in the guidelines. We (go away) from the guidelines every day.”
Branch sided with Pelfrey, saying Edgerton allegedly shot a police officer. “They had total disrespect for that safety. She has pending charges in Pennsylvania. The bond policy is a suggestion.”
Branch also explained to Phillips Summey was appointed because he rarely practices in the Roanoke Rapids and, “Because of the nature of the person involved.”
The next court date is December 8.
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Even more appalling is that measley $800,000 bail!! We had a man here in town under a $1,000,000 for "allegedly" shooting at/ shooting a young mans mother. Guess our respected and dedicated Officer John Taylor who can be constantly seen patrolling I-95 doesn't deserve that same amount of justice? Branch should go share a room with Summey so they can sit up all night when they can't sleep and talk about how morally dead and reprehensible they are!!
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