Suggitt’s request to be released on PR bond denied

MARQUETTE — A former Northern Michigan University professor appeared in Marquette County Circuit Court Monday for a bond hearing.

Thirty-three year-old Amber Suggitt is currently lodged in the Marquette County Jail on an $8 million bond. The defense requested that she be released from jail on a person recognizance bond until her trial begins next month.

Suggitt’s attorney argued that if her client stayed in jail, then she would not remain legally competent to stand trial. Suggitt was found to be competent to stand trial in June of 2017.

Suggitt’s father testified that he could take care of her in the family home in Sault Ste. Marie if she were to be released and ordered to be under house arrest. He even produced a list of people who said they would be willing to watch over Suggitt in his absence.

The court eventually denied the request, saying that there was not enough clear and convincing evidence to suggest that Suggitt would appear in court for trial and not pose a danger to the community if she were to be released on a PR bond. Suggitt will remain in jail until her jury trial, which is scheduled for February 26th.

Suggitt is currently charged with eight felonies, including assault with intent to murder, kidnapping, home invasion first degree, assault with the intent to commit sexual penetration and four counts of felonious firearm charges. The charges stem from an incident that occurred back in February 2017.