Andrew J. Stephenson, 20, of Richland, Washington, did not appear for his arraignment in Antelope County district court last Wednesday, Feb. 23, on three counts. His attorneys, Jeff Courtney and Frankie Hass of Omaha, had filed a written not guilty plea Feb 18, on his behalf. The Honorable Mark Johnson found the written plea insufficient and set further arraignment March 30, at which time Stephenson is ordered to appear in person. Bond, in the amount of $10,000, 10% cash, posted Jan. 7, is continued. Stephenson is charged with a Class 4 felony, possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine) and two infractions, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia, alleged Dec. 23, 2021, following an accident east of Oakdale on Highway 275.

Two defendants changed their pleas pursuant to plea agreements with Antelope County prosecutor Joe Abler.

Aaron White, 48, of Lincoln faced Johnson for pretrial conference on a Class 3A felony, making terroristic threats, alleged Nov. 19, 2021. Pursuant to the agreement, Abler amended the charge to disturbing the peace, a Class 3 misdemeanor, and White pleaded guilty. Sentencing is set March 30. Bond, in the amount of $75,000, 10%, is continued, including terms for no direct or indirect contact with the Brozek family nor Katherine Brozek, and not to be on the Katherine Brozek property for any reason. White had requested a reduction of bond, which was heard by Johnson, via Zoom, on Feb. 7. Abler objected and Johnson denied the motion. White posted bond Feb. 10. He is represented by Antelope County public defender Patrick Carney of Norfolk.

Brian G. Tibbens, 50, of Elgin appeared for pretrial hearing on two counts alleged Sept. 26 at a rural Elgin home, Count I, first-degree assault, a Class 2 felony; and Count II, terroristic threats, a Class 3A felony. Tibbens withdrew his not guilty pleas and entered a no contest plea to Count I. In return, Abler dismissed Count II. Johnson ordered a presentence investigation report and set sentencing April 27. Bond continues at $100,000, 10%. Tibbens was remanded to the custody of Antelope County sheriff Robert Moore, pending posting of bond. He is represented by Carney.