William Webster "Billy" Hamilton, far left, and George Berrish III, far right, wait to enter the courtroom at the Columbia County Justice and Detention Facility Thursday. Also pictured are Columbia County Sheriff's Deputy Mike McWilliams, second from left, and Hays McWhirter, second from right, with the Arkansas State Police. (Photo by Dixie Edington | Banner-News)
Two men charged in the November 2011 theft of five horses and a trailer from Southern Arkansas University appeared in Columbia County Circuit Court Thursday.
George Berrish III, 17, of Ashdown, and William Webster Hamilton, 38, of Avon Park, Fla., both entered not guilty pleas before Circuit Judge Larry Chandler.
David Butler, deputy prosecutor for the 13th Judicial District, stated that Berrish and Hamilton are both charged with six counts theft of property over $5,000. Counts 1-3 is horses horses valued more than $5,000 and less than $25,000. Count 4 is a horse trailer valued at over $5,000 and less than 25,000. Counts 5-6 are horses valued at over $25,000.
Judge Chandler appointed the public defender’s office to represent both Hamilton and Berrish.
Berrish was released on his own recognizance to house arrest with his father, and is to return to court July 5. Bond was set at $150,000 for Hamilton.
Hope he doesn’t run. He should pay dearly for his part in what has been done.
How can he (Billy) not guilty when he has already admitted to stealing the horses and trailer?