March 28, 2024
Local News | Bureau County Republican


Local News

Defendant in McNabb standoff asks for jury trial

Marcano faces burglary charge

HENNEPIN — Billy J. Marcano, 31, is once again being held in the Putnam County Jail after the receipt of psychiatric care, according to the Putnam County State's Attorney Christina Judd-Mennie.

Following a May 9 status hearing, Judd-Mennie said Marcano's behavior, previously erratic, aggressive and defiant, had improved to the point where he was allowed to be uncuffed during the proceedings.

Represented by public defender Roger Bolin, Marcano, of McNabb, requested a jury trial for the burglary charge he faces as a result of his February standoff with law enforcement.

Marcano also waived the holding of a preliminary hearing on the charge. His trial date will be set at a later date.

On Feb. 5, the Putnam County Sheriff's Office received a call that a male, later identified as Marcano, had used a machete to break through a locked interior door in the back of Moreno's restaurant in McNabb and entered while making threats.

He is also alleged to have gone to an upstairs apartment in McNabb and broken in before returning to his residence. He remained there until the seven-hour standoff ended at about 9 p.m. when he surrendered to law enforcement.

Judd-Mennie said Marcano is unlikely to face additional charges, and his next status hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on May 16.