Deputy District Attorney Kim Parker says prosecutors and police have to follow the law, but can’t ignore Ryan Newell’s past.
“If this case if does nothing else, I’m am hopeful what happens is that our community starts thinking what can we do in general to help the situation of a disabled veteran,” says Parker.
Parker made that comment as Newell was released from jail Tuesday afternoon.
Newell $500,000 bond remains, but was released on the condition seeks immediate treatment at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Newell lost his legs to an I.E.D attack in Afghanistan. He’s accused of stalking members of the Westboro Baptist Church which is known from protesting solider funerals.
Newell has plenty of support. A group has even formed to help raise money for his defense.
“It's been unbelievable, whether civilian or military, everybody has been so thoughtful. The calls pour in and we have special staff in our office just to deal with it,” said Newell’s attorney Boyd McPherson.
It’s not known how long Newell will be at the VA or when he will face his charges in court again. In the meantime, Parker says the community should think about how it can help veterans.
“We as a community should focus on the help our disabled veterans need… the people who have served us and protect the freedoms that are at stake in this case… that we turn our attention to that need for help.”
