State v. Link

The State appeals from an order entered in District Court, Cascade County, granting defendant’s motion for a change of venue. We reverse.

Defendant was arrested February 25, 1980, in Great Falls, Montana, and was charged with felony theft. He pleaded not guilty and was released on his own recognizance. Trial was set for June 30, but was vacated and reset for August 25, 1980. On August 11, 1980, defendant was arrested for robbery. Both crimes were reported in the Great Falls Tribune. One article, published 12 days before trial, pictured defendant in handcuffs, and in an article appearing a week…