Judge Owen chastises no-show jurors, absent suspect

Disobeying an order from the court and “no show” jurors prompted a lecture from Judge Molly Owen in Polson District Court Jan. 24.

Several people had to appear for a hearing before Judge Owen to show cause as to why they shouldn’t be held in contempt of court after missing jury duty for a trial that was scheduled for Dec. 4, 2023. Owen explained the importance of jury trials, the need for jurors and the legal system.

Another lecture followed about people recording and/or live streaming court proceedings on the Zoom platform, in violation of a court order.

The judge also said she was "infuriated" by Sunny Katherinne White, 29, and her attorney, Meghan Benson, for not appearing for an omnibus hearing on Wednesday, Jan 24. Benson had filed a motion to continue that omnibus hearing, but did so the afternoon of Jan. 23, which Owen said was insufficient time for her as she holds court in other jurisdictions.

White is charged with five felonies, including accidents involving another person or deceased person, two counts of criminal child endangerment, and criminal possession of dangerous drugs. The five charges carry a combined maximum of 65 years in prison.

White is accused of striking and killing Mika Westwolf March 31, 2023, on U. S. Highway 93 in the Arlee area. White allegedly kept traveling northbound after hitting Westwolf. Debris at the crash scene led investigators to identify the 2008 Cadillac Escalade that White was driving as the vehicle suspected of striking the young Native woman.

Judge Owen granted Benson’s request and continued White’s omnibus hearing to Feb. 28. The suspect remains at liberty after posting a $200,000 bond.