Harrison County Court reviews drug, domestic violence cases

Floyd E. Burge of Scio is being held on a $25,000 bond on six drug charges, all felonies of varying degrees. The case dates to January 2024. Burge previously requested new counsel, but said he is willing to continue with Harrison County Public Defender C. Adrian Pincola.

Burge also told the court he is willing to submit to a polygraph test. Judge Shawn T. Hervey said Burge has been made an offer, though details were not disclosed, and Burge and Pincola will need to discuss whether to accept it.

Pincola acknowledged Burge’s request for a polygraph but said the decision was “inappropriate today.” Hervey noted there is a specific process for administering a polygraph.

“The hard part about asking for a polygraph is you don’t have a right to it,” Hervey said. “The state would have to also agree and stipulate.”

A hearing is scheduled Feb. 3.

Regis J. Marker Jr. of Wintersville, represented by Pincola, told the court he is prepared to complete an Ohio Risk Assessment to determine eligibility for placement at the Eastern Ohio Correctional Center. Until Marker completes the assessment, the prosecution cannot make an offer on three domestic violence charges — two fourth-degree felonies and one misdemeanor.

Prosecutor Lauren Knight said her office complied with a discovery request Dec. 23. Marker appeared voluntarily after initially being held on a $20,000 bond.

Cody A. Walter, also represented by Pincola, faces a fifth-degree felony domestic violence charge and will also complete an Ohio Risk Assessment.