Vanhemert Requests Speedy Trial And Has Bond Reduced

Luke Vanhemert (Mahaska County Jail Photo)

Oskaloosa, Iowa – Luke Vanhemert, 23, of Oskaloosa, IA, is charged with the 2nd Degree Murder of Marquis Todd. Vanhemert has requested a speedy trial in that case.

The Mahaska County 911 Center received a call at approximately 10:50 pm, March 1st, about a fight that occurred at 603 North 3rd Street in Oskaloosa. Law enforcement found Todd stabbed, just blocks away, at Jiffy convenience store.

A warrant was issued for Vanhemert’s arrest on Tuesday, March 13, 2018, and he’s been held in the Mahaska County Jail on a $500,000 cash only bond since then.

Vanhemert has plead not guilty to the charge stemming from the March 1st incident, and has an anticipated trial start date of June 12, 2018.

Vanhemert petitioned the court to have his bond reduced. That proceeding took place this past week in Mahaska County District Court in front of Judge Daniel Wilson.

The State of Iowa resisted the bond reduction stating past cases against Vanhemert, which include Delivery of a Counterfeit Controlled Substance.

Vanhemert also has a conviction for Tampering with a Witness in Mahaska County case AGIN 108578, which resulted in a two-year prison term suspended and probation.

Vanhemert may assert self-defense and “stand your ground” defenses in this case. Vanhemert’s employer before his arrest has stated he would be allowed to return to work if released. Vanhemert was living with his father and stepmother in Oskaloosa at the time of his arrest. He has lived in Oskaloosa most of his life.

Wilson’s ruling on bond reduction was to change the bond to $250,000, cash, surety, or 10 percent to the Clerk of Court acceptable. If a bond is posted, Vanhemert shall be released from custody at such time as he has signed the necessary papers for supervision with the Department of Correctional Services.

A criminal charge is merely a criminal charge and not an indication of guilt. All suspects should be considered innocent until proven guilty.