34 year old Jeremy Birkla was back in Wabash County Court Thursday for a pre-trial hearing, where a judge granted a defense motion allowing him to enter a long-term treatment in-patient facility for alcoholism.
As a result, Birkla’s jury trial previously set for March 2nd has been vacated.
Judge Denton Aud told Birkla the court was “very hesitant” and “extremely hesitant” to allow his release, but agreed under strict conditions tied to his admission into treatment. The judge warned Birkla the terms of his pretrial release will be extremely stringent and that he must fully comply with all court-ordered conditions.
Under the order, Birkla must appear in court when required, cannot violate any criminal laws, cannot possess firearms, and may not leave the state without permission, though the court is allowing travel specifically for the approved treatment program. He must also stay away from and have no contact whatsoever with the alleged victim in the case.
Birkla is charged with aggravated domestic battery, unlawful restraint, domestic battery, interference with the reporting of domestic violence, and criminal damage to property stemming from alleged incidents in November.
