Admitted Double Killer Released from Scioto County Jail. Fact Check.
A local man has admitted that he committed two counts of aggravated vehicular homicide (among other lesser charges). Two days later, the man was allowed to go home. This set off a firestorm of social media rants and even a peaceful protest at the Scioto County Jail. Let’s look at the facts and report without bias.
Start From the Beginning
One year ago, today, a series of tragic events resulted in the deaths of a South Point, Ohio couple enjoying a leisurely holiday motorcycle ride in our county.
While searching for a reported intoxicated driver, OSP located a fatal crash on State Route 140 in South Webster. The initial investigation revealed that Arnold Queen II, 42-years-old, of Wheelersburg, crossed the center line and struck a 2019 Harley Davidson motorcycle occupied by Steven L. Cahal, 51-years-old, and Lorena Cahal, 50-years-old, both of South Point, Ohio.
Mrs. Cahal was pronounced deceased at the scene, while Mr. Cahal was flown from the scene to Cabell-Huntington Hospital in Huntington, West Virginia. Sadly, Mr. Cahal later succumbed to his injuries.
Queen was charged with 2 counts of aggravated vehicular homicide.
What Just Happened?
On Wednesday, September 1st, Queen appeared with his attorney, Rick Faulkner, before Judge Howard Harcha. Queen withdrew his original plea of not guilty to a plea of guilty of all charges including two counts of vehicular homicide. Queen was housed in the Scioto County Jail for 362 days until an unusual request was granted by the court.
Queen petitioned the court for a temporary release from jail so that he may go home and get his affairs in order. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. In this case, the defendant admitted guilt. While going through any court process a defendant may request any number of considerations from the court. Some requests are summarily dismissed while others are granted by the judge.
On Friday, September 3rd at 6 p.m. Queen was quietly released from jail. Family members of the Cahls were holding a peaceful protest at the jail. They did not see Queen’s departure and a potential confrontation was avoided. Queen is to report back to the Scioto County Jail Monday morning at 8:30.
The Conditions of Release
Queen was fitted with an ankle monitor and ordered to remain at a specific residence during the weekend. In addition, he was forbidden to consume alcohol or drugs. He was ordered to be picked up and return to the jail by a designated family member.
The Cahal Family is Outraged
The timing of the release has rubbed salt in the very deep and open wounds of the family. This weekend represents the one-year anniversary of the homicides. The family told reporters they felt the temporary release was “unfair” and “a slap in the face”.
The Prosecution Speaks
Scioto County Prosecutor, Shane Tieman, did not shy away from answering questions. Tieman said requests like this are sometimes approved when their office is satisfied that the defendant is not a flight risk. In fact, another person was permitted to return home for over 2 weeks prior to sentencing. Queen’s actions and activities are being constantly monitored and are under very strict scrutiny.
Judge Howard Harcha will impose sentencing at 2:30 pm on Friday, September 24th.