A man named Lance Broncho, 23, who was charged with murder, has taken back his guilty plea. This change means the state is now planning to pursue the death penalty against him again. The situation has become more complicated with new felony charges added to his case.
New Charges Against Broncho
Recently, Broncho faced three new felony charges. These include felony assault or battery against specific personnel and felony introduction of major contraband into a correctional facility. These new charges come on top of his earlier murder charges from March, where he was accused of killing 51-year-old Eric Leask. His previous charges included:
- Felony first-degree murder
- Felony aggravated battery with a deadly weapon
- Felony robbery
- Felony burglary
- Unlawful possession of a firearm as a convicted felon
- Two felony enhancements for using a deadly weapon during a crime
Initially, Broncho signed a plea agreement in June. Under this deal, he was supposed to receive life in prison, and the death penalty would be off the table. However, the new charges have led him to withdraw his guilty plea on July 11. Randy Neal, the Bonneville County Prosecutor, has stated that they will now pursue the death penalty against Broncho.
Recent Jail Incidents
On July 6, Broncho was involved in a troubling incident while in jail. During a search of his cell, deputies found medications and an improvised tattoo device, which he had created from a shampoo bottle. After the search, Broncho allegedly hit a deputy in the head.
The deputy did not sustain serious injuries, but the situation escalated when Broncho tried to headbutt two other deputies. This led to him being restrained and later requiring stitches for a lip injury he sustained during the altercation.
A letter found in Broncho’s cell contained details about the incident, including a “conspiracy to smuggle drugs into the jail.” He also mentioned his aggression towards the deputies and described how he had suffered an injury during the altercation.
Despite being charged with these new offenses, Broncho is still being held without bond for the murder charge. He has a bond of $25,000 for the new charges, but the serious nature of his earlier case keeps him locked up.
Read More: Portland Crime: Man Faces Charges After Shooting Through Door and 4-Hour Standoff!
Upcoming Court Appearances
Broncho is scheduled to appear in court for a status conference on the murder case on August 1. He will also face a preliminary hearing for the new assault charges on August 2. If convicted of the assault charges, he could face up to 20 years in prison. However, the stakes are much higher for the murder case, where he could receive life in prison or even face the death penalty.
Background of the Murder Case
The murder case against Broncho began on the night of March 9, when police received reports of a shooting on 4th Street. A woman living at the residence stated that she and Leask were awakened by a suspect breaking into their home. Broncho reportedly began fighting with the woman’s son, and when Leask intervened, Broncho shot him multiple times.
Witnesses described Broncho as armed and wearing a mask during the home invasion. The son was injured in the leg and hand, while Leask suffered fatal wounds to the chest. After the incident, Broncho fled the scene but was believed to be injured as well.
Both Leask and the son were taken to the hospital, but sadly, Leask later died from his injuries. The son, however, was released after treatment.
Read More: Missing Person Alert: Chris Castro Disappears from Boise River Area!
Recorded Jail Conversations
In May, jail recordings obtained by EastIdahoNews.com revealed Broncho discussing the murder with friends and family. In a video call, he mentioned that the victim was a family friend, indicating a complex relationship between him and the victims.
As the case unfolds, Broncho’s actions and decisions have drawn significant attention, highlighting the serious implications of his new charges and the potential for a death penalty trial. The outcome of this case will depend heavily on the upcoming court proceedings, and many are watching closely as it develops.
