OTTAWA COUNTY, Mich. — For the first time since the death Brandon Kuiper, Richey Usher faced a judge Wednesday, officially looking at a charge of manslaughter and up to 15 years in prison.
Usher, 18, was in an Ottawa County courtroom for just three minutes, with only his lawyer at his side.
Kuiper, 16, died on March 8 after being shot in the face during a game of Russian Roulette between himself, Usher, and four other friends in a Leonard Street home in Tallmadge Township on March 6. Investigators say the six teens were drinking and smoking marijuana at the time.
Usher’s grandfather – who lives at the home – told FOX 17 the day after the shooting that Usher was the shooter.
On Wednesday, Usher’s defense asked Judge Kenneth Post to lower the 18-year-old’s bond from $350,000 to something more manageable for the teen’s parents to afford. The plan would be for Usher to live with his parents upon release.
The prosecution strongly opposed any lowering of the bond, citing – among other things – “the danger to society” Usher’s release would pose.
Judge Post denied the request.
Usher’s next court date will be set within the next few days.
