By Eric Rodriguez
MODESTO, CA – Jose Manuel Medina Mendoza was present in front of Stanislaus County Superior Court Judge Jeff Mangar this week where his attorney asked for a medical plan to help him overcome his mental health issues—the judge denied the request.
With no assigned attorney when he entered, Mendoza was given counsel in the courtroom, who requested a no bail own recognizance release because Mendoza has lived in the area for 15 years and has a child.
As noted by the court, however, the child is currently living with the mother.
Mendoza has also worked various manual labor jobs in the area and has his immediate family living in the county, his attorney said.
The prosecutor said, “I am hesitant to agree with O.R. Mendoza has a minimal criminal history and notes that point to possible mental health issues.”
The prosecutor said Mendoza currently has an open drug related case that hasn’t been addressed by the court, an act of vandalism that occurred in his mother’s home when he punched the wall in the bathroom.
According to the court, it is believed that the incident occurred when Mendoza was under the influence of a narcotic.
Mendoza’s court-appointed attorney suggested that Mendoza partake in a mental health program that will be issued through the public defender’s office. It was also noted the DA is open to the mental health program.
Due to the lack of a solid plan, Judge Mangar had Mendoza remanded into custody with a bail set for $10,000.
Mendoza will appear in court Nov. 3 for his pretrial.
