Wed Sep 11 21:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Beatrice Man Faces $1 Million Bond in Infant Death Case
**Beatrice, NE** – Austin Meyn, 27, of Beatrice, was ordered to post a $1 million bond on Wednesday in Gage County Court following his arrest in connection with the death of a 4-month-old child in August. Meyn faces charges of intentional child abuse resulting in death, a Class 1 felony, and negligent child abuse resulting in death, a Class 2 felony.
Deputy County Attorney Braden Dvorak argued for the high bond, citing Meyn’s potential risk to himself, witnesses, and others, as well as his history of leaving the area after being released from prison.
Meyn’s defense attorney, Timothy Noerrlinger, requested a lower bond, emphasizing Meyn’s strong ties to the community and lack of financial resources for flight. Judge Jeffrey Gaertig ultimately set the bond at $1 million, requiring Meyn to post $100,000 for his release.
The case was continued to September 27th for a hearing to determine if Meyn will waive his right to a preliminary hearing.
Ashlen Zitel, 27, of Beatrice, the other individual arrested in connection with the infant’s death, faces charges of negligent child abuse causing death and negligent child abuse. Her preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 15th. Her bond was set at $250,000, and she remains in the Gage County Detention Center.
This case marks the first fatal shooting in Beatrice since December 2020, according to police. The Beatrice Daily Sun provides comprehensive coverage of local public safety news, offering subscribers unlimited access to articles, videos, and personalized news alerts.
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