Judge increases bond for Marion man accused of kidnapping, sexual assault

A judge increased a bond Wednesday for a 21-year-old Marion man accused of kidnapping, stabbing and sexually assaulting a woman he met through a social media website in April.

Bryan Roche is charged with first-degree kidnapping, first-degree sexual abuse, attempted murder and an added charge of willful injury causing serious injury. His bond went from $200,000 cash only to $275,000 cash only.

Assistant Linn County Attorney Jason Burns asked for an increase in bond, saying Roche posed an "extreme danger to the community" and was a flight risk based on the possibility of a life sentence if convicted.

Mark Brown, Roche's attorney, asked the court to reduce the bond, citing he had no prior criminal history and that he could live with his grandmother and would follow any conditions the court ordered. Brown said Roche didn't have the resources to make a cash bond.

Sixth Judicial District Judge Robert Sosalla increased the bond based on the seriousness of the charges, the possibility for life imprisonment, risk of flight and because a knife was involved and the woman suffered life threatening injuries. Sosalla said his decision was also based on the trial information, which showed the state has a "strong evidentiary case."

Sosalla also left the protective order in place and stipulated if Roche made bond he would remain under the supervision of the 6th Judicial Department of Correctional Services.

According to police, Roche held a 20-year-old woman against her will for about two hours April 24. The woman was tied up and choked, sexually assaulted and stabbed in the abdomen and neck. Officers were called about 7 p.m. to an apartment complex at 1627 2nd Ave. SE and found the woman in the stairwell. The woman told police after Roche left she went into the hallway, where some neighbors found her.

According to the criminal complaint, Roche placed taped over her mouth and neck in an effort to confine her in the residence. He also told her "You are going to have to die because I am not going to jail."

The woman identified Roche as her attacker, according to a police report. When questioned by police, Roche admitted the attack and led police to a dumpster where he discarded evidence, including the knife.

Cedar Rapids Police Sgt. Cristy Hamblin confirmed after his arrest that the two had met through a social media site but she didn't know if that was the first time they have met.

Roche has pleaded not guilty to the charges. A trial date hasn't been set at this time.