A request for bail reduction by a former Charles City resident, accused of killing a New Hampton man last fall, has been denied.
26-year-old Sayvonne Jordan faces charges of first-degree murder, going armed with intent, and abuse of a corpse in the death of 30-year-old Jonathan Esparza on October 20, 2022. His remains were found at Jordan’s Elma residence November 30, 2022.
Jordan has pleaded not guilty and remains in the Howard County Jail in Cresco on a $1 million cash bond.
Last month, the defense asked for a bond review hearing, arguing that the bond is at a level that guarantees Jordan remains incarcerated, because he doesn’t have the assets to meet the current bail. They also stated that Jordan has significant ties to the community and promises to appear in court as requested if he bonds out of jail. The state filed a resistance claiming that Jordan’s release from custody will put the public at risk and that he is also a flight risk.
Jordan was granted a bond review hearing, which was held this week. But there were no changes after a judge ruled that “the bail and conditions previously set are continued.”
Earlier this month, defense counsel also filed notice that, when Jordan’s trial begins November 1st in Howard County District Court, it is the “Defendant’s intent to offer evidence of self defense, defense of property, or defense of others” in the alleged killing of Esparza.
