The Madison County Deputy Jailer who had a warrant out for his arrest and was taken into custody earlier this week for trafficking in a controlled substance while in official uniform appeared in District Court this morning for an arraignment.
Deputy Jailer Billy Bales was allegedly seen on surveillance in his official vehicle and uniform purchasing a controlled substance. The nature of the case added the charge of 1st degree official misconduct. He is also charged with Trafficking 3rd.
A special judge was assigned to his case, as the three Madison County District judges recused the case for untold reasons. Bales pleaded not guilty in his arraignment, and told Judge Mary Phelps that he intends to hire his own attorney. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 6th, at which time he will be expected to have counsel.
