FIRST APPEARANCE FOR POSEY, ALLEGED SHOOTER IN MASS SHOOTING IN FORDYCE
Travis Eugene Posey, 44, from New Edinburg, appeared for his initial court session at 1:30 PM yesterday at the Ouachita County Circuit Court, with Judge Ryan Phillips presiding over the proceedings.
Posey stands accused of a shooting incident that resulted in 14 individuals being shot, four fatally, on Friday, June 21, 2024, at the Mad Butcher in Fordyce.
The courtroom was heavily guarded with State Troopers, County Deputies, and Camden City Police present. Judge Phillips addressed the gallery, acknowledging the heightened emotions but emphasizing the need for order, stating that the court would not tolerate any disruptions.
During the appearance, Posey, accompanied by his attorney, displayed no emotion. The prosecution, led by Phillip Stone, outlined the charges against Posey: four counts of Capital Murder, with potential sentences of life imprisonment or the death penalty, and ten counts of attempted Capital Murder, each carrying a potential sentence of 10 to 40 years or life in prison. Attorney Parrish, representing Posey, confirmed that Posey understood the charges and would exercise his right to remain silent, allowing his attorney to speak on his behalf.
After reviewing the affidavit of probable cause, the court found sufficient grounds to proceed with the case.
The court acknowledged Posey’s indigence and appointed Attorney Parrish to represent him. Parrish then entered a not guilty plea on Posey’s behalf.
As the hearing moved to the matter of bond, Attorney Phillips began to address the court.
Attorney Parrish declared that Posey would plead not guilty.
The Judge then addressed the matter of bond. Attorney Phillips argued for no bond to be set, referencing the relevant laws for a capital murder case. Attorney Parrish concurred with Phillips’ interpretation of the law and requested the Judge’s decision. Judge Phillips ruled that no bond would be granted, as Posey posed a risk to others.
Attorney Parrish referenced a statute requiring the appointment of two death penalty attorneys whenever capital punishment is considered. He announced plans to appoint a second attorney for Posey’s defense.
An arraignment date will be scheduled later. Currently, all subsequent court proceedings and the trial are set to take place in Dallas County, due to safety concerns about holding the hearing in Ouachita County, where Posey is detained.
