Markwart allowed release

Tyler Markwart, the former WSU student who was convicted by a jury Dec. 13 of marijuana charges after a two day trial, was allowed release from jail Friday under a $5,000 recognizance bond. Markwart, who represented himself in court during the December trial, had been ordered to report to jail to await sentencing after the jury rendered its verdict.

Judge David Frazier ordered Markwart not to possess firearms, possess or sell drugs during the pre-sentencing release. He issued a stern warning to Markwart that the release would end and his mother, who signed as surety for the $5,000 bond, would lose that sum if he violated those terms.

In addition to charges of selling, possessing and growing marijuana, Markwart was convicted of having guns in his possession at his apartment while committing those crimes.

Markwart’s next appearance in court was scheduled for March 2. His attorneys have advised the court they plan to file a motion for a new trial.

The attorneys told the court Markwart’s former employer in Seattle had offered him a job if he could return to work. They also said Markwart intends to apply for re-admission to Washington State University and possibly complete some of his studies while residing in Seattle.

Markwart was released from jail to the custody of his mother who planned to drive him back to Seattle.