Judge denies accused meth-maker's request to have bail lowered

Mar 9, 2010 — The Hawk Eye

John Mangalonzo

Mar. 9, 2010 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) -- Citing the seriousness of the allegations, which may have placed innocent people at risk, a district court judge denied to lower bail or place a man accused of making meth in a residential area under pretrial supervision release.

Judge Mary Ann Brown on Monday maintained the $75,000 bail set for the release of Jeremiah Jon Bass, who is charged with manufacturing of a controlled substance and two counts of possession of meth precursors with intent to manufacture.

The 32-year-old also is charged in another case -- but under the same circumstances -- with sponsoring a gathering where controlled substances are used and possession of a controlled substance.

"This is a very, very serious allegation of crime," Brown said.

Des Moines County prosecutor Tyron Rogers urged the judge to maintain bail, describing the charges as "significant offenses."

He added that for someone facing as much prison time as Bass, "there is motivation" for fleeing.

James Beres, an assistant public defender tasked by the court to represent Bass, presented Jeanie Bass, the man's mother, who testified her son can live with her while his case is pending.

According to Jeanie Bass, Jeremiah Bass had odd jobs and has served the United States Army and at one time was deployed to Iraq.

Jeremiah Bass recently worked as a bouncer at a club in Gulfport, Ill.

Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force agents said they collected information about possible illegal activities being conducted at a rented home at 704 S. Sixth St. shared by Bass and Amanda Lea Johnson.

Johnson, 28, is charged with the same offenses.

Bass will go to trial April 6, with a pretrial conference taking place March 22.

If convicted on all charges, Bass faces up to 35 years in prison.

Newstex ID: KRTB-1064-42716329