MOHAVE COUNTY – The range of possible outcomes is extreme for the Henderson man facing terrorism and other charges for a June 2018 incident that began on the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge north of Kingman. Possible punishment disparities were detailed during a January 29 settlement conference conducted for Matthew Wright, 32.
In addition to terrorism, Wright is charged with aggravated assault, unlawful flight from law enforcement and two weapons offenses. Authorities allege Wright parked his homemade armored vehicle on the Colorado River bridge, triggering a 90-minute barricade situation before he drove south into Arizona and was arrested after his modified rig was disabled.
No one was injured in the incident, but police found an AR-15 rifle, a handgun and several magazines of ammunition in the vehicle.
Superior Court Judge Derek Carlisle informed Wright that he would face a 5.75- to 11.25-year prison sentence if he entered into one plea agreement offered by the state. Another plea offer would result in a maximum of an 8.75-year prison term followed by probation.
On the other end of the spectrum, Wright was told he could end up with a natural life prison term if convicted of terrorism and other charges at trial.
Defense counsel Michael Denea has indicated Wright intends to enter one of the plea agreements during a hearing scheduled February 4. Trial is scheduled to begin March 17 if Wright changes his mind.
- Dave Hawkins
