After posing with his feet propped up on the Speaker of the House’s desk, Richard Barnett thought he was on top of the world.
And then the Feds knocked on his door.
Now, Richard Barnett will get to spend at least three more nights in jail after his January 8th arrest. Barnett was granted bail by an Arkansas federal judge, with restrictions such as a stay-at-home order and an ankle monitor, but prosecutors successful argued that he should not be released until DC prosecutors have an opportunity to appeal, which will not happen until Monday. A DC District Court judge sided with prosecutors and issued an emergency stay, so Barnett will spend the weekend in the pokey.
According to Politico, Barnett had a five-hour hearing Friday to plead his case for bail. U.S. Magistrate Judge Erin Weidemann in Fayetteville finally granted the request, with severe restrictions. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Harris requested that Barnett’s release be delayed until US Attorneys from DC, where Barnett will be tried, could appeal.
Weidemann believed that with the restrictions, Barnett would not be a flight risk and should be released on Saturday morning.
District Judge Beryl Howell, however, issued a stay, requiring Barnett to be kept in jail pending the appeal of the DC US Attorneys.
So Barnett can prop his feet up on the toilet in his cell.