Bond denied for accused Joplin mosque arsonist

In a ruling issued Tuesday, U. S. District Court Judge James C. England denied bond to Jedediah Stout, Joplin, the man who admitted to investigators that he was responsible for burning down the Joplin Islamic Community Mosque.

Though he has yet to be charged for that crime, Stout has been charged with two arson attempts at the Joplin Planned Parenthood building.

The evidence at the hearing established that the defendant caused a fire at a Mosque in the Joplin area. Based on the evidence presented at the hearing, there are no conditions the Court can impose that would reasonably assure the defendant’s appearance at all scheduled hearings and the safety of other persons or the community.

The defendant has a history of mental health issues. While he argues that cure for this condition is a basis for release, his providers report that he does not recognize his condition and does not consistently take his medication. He has, demonstrated by this case, shown a willingness to act of his belief systems which may be related to his mental health condition. The nature and seriousness posed by his release is substantial. Based on all the foregoing, the Courts finds by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant is a risk of flight, and finds by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant is a danger to the community.