FRESNO (KMJ) — The man accused of the stabbing death of his mother, whose body was then found inside a burning house, has made his first appearance in front of a judge charged with her murder.
Winston Max Russell entered the courtroom at around 10.30am Thursday, and sat calmly with his arms folded while proceedings continued.
His appearance inside Fresno County Superior Court came after the events of Monday May 29th, when a Central Fresno house fire turned into a homicide investigation after a body was found inside.
The victim was identified as Bethlyn Webster. Her 30 year old son is the one facing the charges of murder, and another allegation that a knife was used in the commission of the crime.
The defendant did not enter a plea, instead having his arraignment continued for a week to investigate whether or not there is a conflict with the firm chosen to represent him. If there is, another one may have to be selected.
Winston Max Russell spoke out loud only once in the courtroom, telling Judge John Gallagher “yes that’s fine.”
His bail has been set at $1,025,000. The next hearing is scheduled for Thursday June 15th.
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
