Schulz-Juedes pleads not guilty to 2006 murder

Kenneth Juedes was found shot to death in his home in 2006

Cindy Schulz-Juedes pled not guilty Monday to firstdegree homicide in the 2006 death of her husband, setting up a potential jury trial in six months to a year from now.

At an arraignment hearing in Marathon County Circuit Court, Judge Michael Moran entered a not guilty plea in the murder case of Kenneth Juedes, who was shot to death at his home in 2006.

Judge Moran also denied a motion by Schulz-Juedes’ attorney, Earl Gray, to amend the $1 million bond that is keeping her in the Marathon County Jail.

Gray had asked the judge to lower the bond amount to $100,000 and allow his client to be released to Chippewa County — where she had been living with her daughter — on a GPS ankle bracelet.

Schulz-Juedes, 65, has been in jail since she was arrested at the end of November, and Gray said she is in poor health and would not be a threat to the public if released.

Gray said it will take him six months to a year to prepare for trial, and his client shouldn’t have to remain in jail that entire time due to an unnecessarily high bond amount.

“It’s obviously difficult for any defense lawyer to try a case with their client in custody,” he said.

Gray said Chippewa County is starting an electronic monitoring program for those who are awaiting trial. He said his client could be confined to her home with an ankle bracelet on.

Judge Moran, however, questioned whether Chippewa County would allow someone charged with first-degree homicide to use an ankle bracelet, especially since the county would likely be liable if something went wrong.

Gray said the GPS monitor would ensure that his client continues to appear for future court hearings, and would keep her from leaving the area.

“If she violates that, slam bam, put her back in jail,” he said.

Special prosecutor Richard DuFour said the judge has already rejected the proposed bail amendment twice before, and the judicial process is further along, so the defendant has more incentive to flee before trial.

DuFour also pointed out that the court does not have the authority to order GPS monitoring for someone awaiting trial who has not posted the cash bond.

Judge Moran agreed with DuFour, noting the “conditions of confinements” are up to the sheriff’s department.

“I can’t order someone to be placed on a monitor,” he said.

Gray continued to argue that his client is not a flight risk and would not be a danger to anyone.

“Bail is not made for punishment, as the court knows,” he said. “It’s made to reasonably assure the appearance of a person and protect society.”

Judge Moran said if Gray could point to a law that allows the arrangement he is proposing, “I’d certainly take a look at it,” but until then, he’s keeping the $1 million bond in place. However, he said the court will do what it can to provide a timely trial.

“If she is unable to make bond, we will get this on as soon as possible,” he said. “I guarantee that.”