A St. Landry parish judge has denied bond for 21-year-old Holden Matthews, who is accused of burning down three historically black churches. Matthews had his first court appearance today since he was arrested on Wednesday night. Legal analyst Tim Meche is not surprised Matthews remains in jail without bail.
“Considering the notoriety of the case and the fact it has received national publicity, it doesn’t surprise me he’s been denied bond,” said Meche.
Matthews was arrested Wednesday on three charges of arson of a religious building. Prosecutors have also added three hate crime charges. But Meche says the hate crime charges are not that significant.
“In Louisiana, under our hate crime statue, if it’s proven, it only increases your sentence by five years,” said Meche.
Matthews trial on state charges is set to begin in September. Federal prosecutors are also considering charges against Matthews and Meche expects this case be prosecuted federally.
“Where the sentences will be a little more severe than state court and that’s where this young man will end up,” said Meche.
