UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones made his first appearance in court on Tuesday for a felony charge, and after seeing a judge he has learned that the door has been left open for him to fight next month.
“Bones” was released from custody on continued bond by a San Bernalillo, New Mexico judge, according to spokesperson Camille Cordova.
Jones was arrested on a felony charge of leaving the scene of an accident that involved death or serious injury on Monday, but posted a $2,500 bond just hours later. That bail carried over to his Tuesday release and he will not have to post additional money.
Vincent Ward, Jones’ attorney, asked the judge not to impose a travel restriction on his client, as he needs to travel to Nevada to fight Anthony Johnson in the main event of UFC 187 on May 23rd.
Jones was originally ordered not to leave the state by the court’s background investigation division on Monday, however the judge noted that she was planning on lifting that restriction anyway, and that Jones will be able to travel as scheduled.
Jones was told that he must not possess or consume any alcohol or enter any liquor establishments. He must not buy, sell, consume or possess illegal drugs, nor violate any law. He must also notify the court of any change of address and maintain contact with his attorney. All of these were the conditions of his release.
With all of that said, now the district attorney will decide if Jones’ case will be brought before a grand jury. If it does, the grand jury will decide whether or not to indict Jones. The UFC star will not make a plea unless he is indicted, which is standard procedure for a felony in New Mexico. If the case is indicted, it will take place in second judicial court in Albuquerque.
The D.A. has 60 days to decide whether or not to bring the charges to a grand jury, according to spokesperson Kayla Anderson.
