MOUNT VERNON — Elmer M. Chandler, who is accused of murdering his wife, Joann, was ordered held on $500,000 bond without the 10 percent provision. Chandler appeared in Knox County Common Pleas Court this morning.
Knox County Prosecutor John Thatcher said such a high bail was requested based on the alleged facts that Chandler used a firearm to commit the crime, the prosecution held substantial evidence in the case and Chandler’s mental health condition has yet to be determined.
Chandler’s attorney, Bruce Malek, entered a not guilty plea on behalf of his client and reserved the right to ammend that plea to not guilty by reason of insanity pending a mental health evaluation. Chandler remains incarcerated at the Knox County Jail pending posting of the bond.
