BULLHEAD CITY — The man charged in a machete-related injury incident at Rotary Park in Bullhead City nearly three months ago was released from custody following his September 2 sentencing hearing in Kingman. Kokopelli Beecher, 30, was spared a possible prison sentence when placed on probation for a disorderly conduct conviction achieved through a plea agreement.
Prosecutor Jacob Cote last month said the 70-year-old victim had allowed Beecher to store some personal belongings in his vehicle. The victim indicated that he became concerned that Beecher was erratic and agitated when he tried to gather some of his possessions, including a machete on June 13.
Legal Defender Jonathan Robinson said Beecher never intended to harm the victim, but that the man’s hand was cut when he and Beecher struggled for control of the machete.
Beecher offered apology and explanation. “I have an underlying issue with drugs and alcohol,” he told Mohave County Superior Court Judge Lee Jantzen.
Jantzen responded that Beecher’s criminal history and a prior trip to prison reflect his substance abuse problems.
“I want you to succeed on probation,” Jantzen told Beecher. “I’m going to give you one chance.”
Jantzen assured Beecher that he’d be sent to prison if he violated terms during his three year long probationary period. The Judge ordered an 82 day jail sentence, credited Beecher for 82 days already served and directed his release from the Adult Detention Facility.
Dave Hawkins
