OFF THE WIRE
freelancenews.com
Convicted rapist Michael Reyes asked to change attorneys during a Friday court appearance, further delaying his sentencing.
It is the fourth time Reyes' sentencing has been delayed.
Reyes, a known member of the Mongols Motorcycle Club, was found guilty of 27 felony counts in connection with continuous sexual assault on a minor from 2002 to 2008. Reyes, 56, was the Mongols' local chapter president before his arrest in March 2010.
The sexual assault occurred over a six-year span in Los Banos, Morgan Hill and Hollister. Charges included sexual penetration with a foreign object, lewd or lascivious acts, and rape by force.
Reyes gave visiting Judge Alan Hedegard a memo before the hearing asking to change attorneys.
When asked how much time he needed, Reyes said a "couple of months if possible."
Hedegard said that was too much time and gave Reyes 13 days to find new legal counsel.
"Regrettably, I have to give him time to find a new attorney," Hedegard said.
Reyes is expected to appear before the court on April 7 with a new attorney. He will not be sentenced on that date, but a date will be set if new attorney is hired, Hedegard said.
